Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options to choose from, each offering distinct characteristics to suit different preferences. Two popular choices are the Gateron Luciola, a linear switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Green, a clicky switch. The Luciola stands out with its mesmerizing glow-in-the-dark feature, providing a visually striking experience. It offers a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a unique sound profile described as akin to a "can of spray paint being shaken". On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch doesn't have any standout features but is known for its clicky feedback. This switch falls in the clicky category, providing tactile and auditory feedback with each key press. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Luciola appealing to those who prioritize aesthetics and a unique typing experience, while the Dustproof Green targets users seeking satisfying tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Dustproof Green both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green uses polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials leads to varying auditory experiences for users of these switches, with the Luciola offering a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the Dustproof Green's clearer and more resonant sound.
The contrast continues when looking at the bottom housing of these switches. The Luciola's INK blend bottom housing contributes to its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference can be attributed to the softer nature of nylon compared to the stiffer INK blend, which allows for more sound absorption and a rounder sound overall. The choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the tactile feedback and sound produced by these switches, highlighting the importance of housing material in keyboard switch design.
While the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Dustproof Green feature distinct housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they still share some similarities in terms of overall performance. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Luciola's INK blend and Dustproof Green's polycarbonate offering different but equally enjoyable sound profiles. Additionally, the use of high-quality materials in both switches ensures durability and longevity, making them reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a premium typing feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with the Dustproof Green or a thinner sound with the Luciola, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Luciola has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Dustproof Green's heavier 65 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Luciola at 60 grams is lighter than the Dustproof Green's 80 grams. These variances in force can greatly impact the typing experience. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Luciola may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier forces of the Dustproof Green can provide a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch. The Luciola switch would provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch offers a bit more depth in key press, which may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
The Outemu Dustproof Green comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy sound profile, producing sharp and snappy noises when pressed. This can create a distinct and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the Luciola switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. This can be attributed to the longer or dual-staged springs in the switch, enhancing the tactile feedback. The Dustproof Green switch's feel profile is unknown, making it challenging to make a direct comparison between the two in this area.
Overall, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its distinctive sound and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch lacks information on its sound and feel qualities, making it challenging to assess how it compares to the Luciola in these aspects. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, the Luciola may be a more well-rounded option for those looking for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, a smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a clacky, chirpy sound profile, then the Luciola switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and are looking for a loud, clicky typing experience, then the Dustproof Green switch might be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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