Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both switches fall under the linear category. The Gateron Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and distinctive sound profile likened to a shaking can of spray paint. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus doesn't have any standout feature to its name. The decision between the two switches could come down to personal preference - if you prefer a switch with a unique aesthetic, the Gateron Luciola might be the way to go, but if you're looking for a more understated option, the Outemu Lotus could be a better fit. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the Outemu Lotus utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The Luciola's INK blend top housing produces a thin and higher-pitched clacky sound, whereas the Lotus's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Lotus's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their respective housing materials.
In terms of sound production, the Gateron Luciola's top and bottom housings each play a significant role in creating its distinct sound profile. The pointed and high-pitched sound associated with the Luciola is a result of both the top and bottom INK blend housing materials working together. In comparison, the Outemu Lotus's nylon top and bottom housing work in tandem to produce a deeper and fuller sound, showcasing the impact housing materials have on the overall typing experience of the switch. While the Luciola offers a more sharp and clacky sound, the Lotus delivers a rounder and duller sound due to the properties of nylon.
When dissecting the impact of housing materials on typing experience, it becomes apparent that the Gateron Luciola and Outemu Lotus offer contrasting sound profiles based on their respective top and bottom housing materials. The INK blend top housing of the Luciola contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound upon key release, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Luciola influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus adds to the overall roundness and dullness of its sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Luciola has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes and requiring less force to bottom out. This difference in weight can affect the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more substantial feel. Ultimately, individuals will need to consider their preference for actuation and bottom out forces when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for fast response times, particularly favored by gamers. However, the Luciola has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the key press, the Luciola may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an even shorter travel distance for quick and snappy key presses, the Lotus would be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing a responsive typing or gaming 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 Lotus 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy profile, giving off a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, it has a marbly and high-pitched tone that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus switch is not well-known for its sound profile, so it's hard to make a direct comparison. However, both switches can potentially offer similar results depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is described as snappy, buttery, and polished. These characteristics indicate a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a responsive and refined finish, providing a satisfying keystroke sensation. As for the Outemu Lotus linear switch, there is no information available about its tactile feel. Again, similar results may be achieved with both switches depending on other factors like materials and lubing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch stands out for its distinctive sound profile, offering a clacky and chirpy typing experience that is complemented by a smooth and bouncy feel. Although information about the Outemu Lotus switch is lacking in regards to sound and feel, it's possible to achieve a comparable typing experience with both switches by considering additional variables. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force and qualities of each switch. If you prefer a medium heft with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with a distinctive glow-in-the-dark feature, then the Luciola switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with specific sound and feel descriptors, you may lean towards the Lotus switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and features that matter most to you.
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