Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Gold

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola and Outemu Gold offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Gateron Luciola, a linear switch, is renowned for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark design and medium heft, providing a smooth and bouncy typing experience. Additionally, it produces a distinct hollow sound profile likened to a "can of spray paint being shaken." On the other hand, the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, lacks any standout features but offers a different typing experience. While the Luciola is characterized by terms such as 'Clacky' and 'Buttery', the Gold falls under a different category altogether. When choosing between these switches, one must consider their preference for tactile feedback and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Outemu Gold Clicky

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Gold, it is clear that they each offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Gold's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials produce a high-pitched sound, the Luciola's top housing has been described as more clacky compared to the Gold's top housing, which is known for its clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a similar high-pitched sound profile as its top housing counterpart. In contrast, the Gold's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the thin and higher-pitched sound of the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing. The choice between these materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.

When considering how the housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. This distinction highlights the importance of selecting housing materials that align with your desired sound profile and typing experience when choosing between switches like the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Gold.

Weight

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams, while the Gold has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams. This makes the Gold switch lighter in terms of actuation force but equal to the Luciola in terms of bottom-out force. The actuation force is important for triggering keystrokes, with a lighter force being preferred by some for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, a heavier force may provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, those looking for a lighter actuation force may opt for the Outemu Gold switch, while those preferring a medium actuation force should choose the Gateron Luciola. Both switches offer a similar bottom-out force, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of pressure needed to fully press the key.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have different travel distances that can affect the typing experience. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Gold's 4 mm travel distance. A shorter travel distance like that of the Luciola can be preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance like the Gold may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is characterized by a unique mix of clacky and chirpy qualities that create a distinct typing experience. The sound profile of the Luciola is often likened to a "can of spray paint being shaken," which adds to the overall auditory satisfaction of using this switch. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is currently unavailable. However, based on the lack of descriptors, it is safe to assume that the Gold switch may not offer the same level of auditory appeal as the Luciola.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is praised for its snappy and buttery typing experience. With a medium heft and smooth, bouncy feel, the Luciola switch provides a responsive and seamless keystroke that many users find enjoyable. The Gold switch, unfortunately, lacks any known descriptors for its tactile feel. Without this information, it is unclear how the typing experience on the Gold switch compares to the well-regarded feel of the Luciola.

Overall, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique and satisfying sound and feel profile with its clacky, chirpy sound and snappy, buttery feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks specific descriptors for its subjective qualities. As a result, it is challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of sound and feel. However, in cases where information is not available, it is possible that the Gold switch may offer similar results to the Luciola, but without concrete descriptors, it is difficult to make a definitive judgement.

Conclusion

In summary, if you are looking for a unique and eye-catching switch that offers a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a distinct sound profile, the Gateron Luciola linear switch may be the right choice for you. The Luciola's glowing feature and range of sound descriptors make it a fun and versatile option for your mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and a satisfying clicky sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and the overall experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard. Choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and enjoy the tactile sensations and sounds of your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Gold Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more