Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch stand out as popular options. The Luciola switch is distinct for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth typing feel, and unique sound profile likened to a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch lacks any standout visual features but offers a satisfying clicky typing experience. While the Luciola switch is praised for its snappy and polished feel, the Milk Blue switch provides a clicky and satisfying typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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 housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Milk Blue switches differ in terms of the top and bottom housing materials used. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which results in a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Milk Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in materials affects the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
Additionally, the use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of the switches also impacts their aesthetic appeal. The Luciola's INK blend top housing provides a unique look with its translucent finish, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing is also clear, but the nylon bottom housing adds a contrasting element to the switch's appearance. This shows that the choice of housing materials not only affects the sound and feel of the switches but also plays a role in their visual appeal.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Milk Blue switches offer a satisfying typing experience. The use of proprietary blends and classic materials in the top and bottom housings reflects the manufacturers' commitment to quality and innovation in switch design. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched clacky sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Luciola has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, while the Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams, the bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown. Both switches fall within the medium weight category, making them suitable for those who prefer a balance between lighter and heavier typing experiences. The actuation force of both switches allows for a smooth typing experience, with the Luciola offering a slightly more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience, as both provide reliable actuation force for efficient keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for some users. The Luciola switch's shorter travel distance may be appealing to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Milk Blue switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches offer a unique feel based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Milk Blue 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, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, giving it a distinct and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. The difference in sound between these two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Luciola offering a more dynamic and responsive auditory feedback compared to the Milk Blue.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is characterized by its snappy, buttery, and polished typing feel, providing a smooth and bouncy keystroke experience. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is not specified. The tactile feedback and actuation force of a switch play a crucial role in determining the comfort and performance of a mechanical keyboard. With the Luciola switch offering a more responsive and polished feel, users can expect a more refined typing experience compared to the Milk Blue.
Taking into consideration the available information, it is evident that the Gateron Luciola linear switch stands out for its lively sound profile and smooth, bouncy typing feel. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch remain unknown, it is safe to assume that it may provide a different typing experience compared to the Luciola. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance. If a user enjoys a clacky sound and a snappy feel, the Luciola might be the preferred choice. However, for those who prefer a clicky switch without specific preferences towards sound and feel, the Milk Blue could still provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a smooth and bouncy feel with a medium bottom out force, along with a clacky and snappy sound profile, then the Luciola switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a unique acoustic signature and are not concerned about the bottom out force, then the Milk Blue switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you value the most.
Mentioned in this article
