Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Silent Green mechanical keyboard switches, one can see the distinct differences between the two linear options. The Gateron Luciola stands out with its unique glowing feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and distinctive sound profile likened to a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green offers a quiet typing experience without any specific standout features. If you are looking for a switch that is snappy, clacky, chirpy, marbly, buttery, high-pitched, and polished, the Gateron Luciola might be the ideal choice for you. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Silent Green switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to achieve a satisfying sound profile. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend in both the top and bottom housings results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent Green's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, especially due to its stiffness.
One key difference between the two switches is the use of polycarbonate in the Silent Green, which allows for a clear housing that maximizes the effect of RGB lighting. This aesthetic choice may appeal to users looking to customize the appearance of their keyboard with vibrant lighting effects. However, the Luciola's INK blend housing does not offer this translucent feature, so users interested in showcasing their RGB lighting setups may lean towards the Outemu Silent Green for this reason.
In terms of performance, the housing materials of the two switches impact not only the sound but also the feel of typing. The bottom housing's qualities play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that can cater to different preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, whether you prefer the clacky sound of the Luciola or the crisper sound of the Silent Green will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is clear that they both have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to press the keys all the way down. However, the Luciola has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silent Green's 45 grams. This means that the Silent Green switch requires less force to activate a keystroke, making it lighter in terms of actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Silent Green switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch, with its slightly heavier actuation force, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silent Green linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Luciola offers a slightly quicker key press compared to the Silent Green. Gamers may prefer the Luciola for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, those who enjoy a more robust and deliberate feel when typing may lean towards the Outemu Silent Green with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Silent 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, reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is hard to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to how these switches feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is described as snappy and bouncy, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience. The feel of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is unknown, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in terms of feel. The descriptions of feel can vary greatly between different switches, so it is essential to consider personal preference and typing style.
Overall, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch boasts a distinct sound and feel profile, the lack of information on the Outemu Silent Green linear switch makes it challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. In cases where the information is not available, it is likely that you may achieve similar results with both switches. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a unique aesthetic with glowing switches, a medium bottom out force, a smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched sound profile, then the Gateron Luciola may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a silent operation, the Outemu Silent Green may suit your needs. Consider factors such as sound profile, typing feel, and visual appeal when making your decision on which switch to use for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and gaming or work needs.
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