Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Green offer distinct typing experiences. The Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and unique hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. Known for its snappy, clacky, and polished characteristics, the Luciola switch provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch does not have any standout features but is categorized as a clicky switch. While the Luciola switch may appeal to those looking for a unique typing experience with its glow-in-the-dark feature, the Outemu Green switch may attract users who prefer a traditional clicky switch. 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
Standard
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 housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Green switches each bring unique characteristics to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a satisfying clacky sound that is pointed and relatively high-pitched. In contrast, the Green's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials contribute to a higher-pitched sound, the Luciola's INK blend may provide a slightly less sharp sound compared to the Green's polycarbonate top housing.
The bottom housings of these switches also play a significant role in the overall sound experience. The Luciola's INK blend bottom housing enhances the thin and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Green's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the harder INK blend bottom housing. This difference in material composition contributes to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch impacts how the switch feels and sounds during use. The characteristics of the bottom housing material influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Luciola and Outemu Green switches, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound, these housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Luciola is lighter in both aspects. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which are considered medium forces. In contrast, the Outemu Green switch features a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Luciola makes it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Green switch provide a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Luciola, while those who prefer a heavier and more tactile typing experience may opt for the Outemu Green switch.
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 Green clicky switch. The shorter travel distance of the Luciola may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Green switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial depth when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key travel distance. Both switches offer unique advantages, but the Luciola is the shorter option while the Outemu Green is the longer option.
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 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, which adds a unique and lively acoustic signature to typing. The sound is likened to a can of spray paint being shaken, giving it a crisp and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare. However, if you prefer a more distinct and tactile sound experience, the Luciola may be the better choice.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is praised for its snappy and bouncy typing feel. The switch's medium heft and smooth keystrokes provide a responsive and enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, the Luciola is described as buttery and polished, offering a seamless and refined typing sensation. As for the Outemu Green clicky switch, its feel qualities are not specified, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison. If you enjoy switches with a satisfying tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, the Luciola may be more suited to your preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch stands out for its eye-catching appearance, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and unique clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Green clicky switch lacks specific descriptions for sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare with the Luciola. However, based on the known qualities of the Luciola, if you are looking for a switch with a lively sound and responsive feel, the Luciola may be a solid choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your typing style, so it's always beneficial to try out different switches to find the perfect fit for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel of each option. If you prefer a medium heft with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with a unique visual element due to their glow-in-the-dark feature, then the Gateron Luciola linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a particular sound profile, such as clacky or chirpy, then the Outemu Green clicky switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound characteristics.
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