Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, there are notable differences worth considering. The Luciola is recognized for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature and a medium heft that provides a smooth and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent Grey offers a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. While the Luciola is known for its “can of spray paint being shaken” sound profile, the Silent Grey is perfect for those seeking a satisfying and silent typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Luciola and Outemu Silent Grey switches offer contrasting options. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a pointed, relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent Grey utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While the Luciola's INK blend offers a satisfying thin sound, the polycarbonate in the Silent Grey switch delivers a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, the differences continue to be apparent. The Luciola boasts the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile to its top housing. In contrast, the Silent Grey features a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the sound by providing a deeper and fuller profile. This is due to nylon's softer properties, enabling it to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound compared to the stiffer INK blend.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the sound profile and feel that you prefer. If you enjoy a sharper and crisper sound, the Outemu Silent Grey with its polycarbonate housing may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, the Gateron Luciola with its nylon bottom housing could be more suitable. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, whether you prefer a clacky sound or a more muted tone.
Weight
The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Luciola has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Grey has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Luciola provides a more medium feel in terms of force, while the Silent Grey leans towards the medium-heavy side. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Luciola, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Silent Grey for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the varied preferences of keyboard users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent Grey switch requires slightly more force to press down fully compared to the Luciola switch. Gamers might prefer the Luciola switch for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more deliberate key press may opt for the Silent Grey switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Grey 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 offers a unique blend of clacky and chirpy characteristics, giving it a sharp and lively sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch provides a silent typing experience without any specific sound descriptors available. Depending on personal preference, the Luciola switch may be more appealing for those who enjoy a more audible typing experience, while the Silent Grey switch is a great option for those who prefer a quieter environment.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola switch is known for its snappy and bouncy typing feel, making each keystroke feel responsive and lively. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is described as highly tactile, offering a satisfying bump with a smooth keystroke experience. Both switches provide a different tactile feedback, with the Luciola offering a more responsive feel while the Silent Grey provides a more pronounced bump for tactile feedback seekers.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola switch stands out for its clacky and chirpy sound profile, along with a snappy typing feel, while the Silent Grey switch provides a quiet typing experience with a highly tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to the user's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a unique and visually appealing switch with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom out force and eye-catching glow make it a standout option for those seeking a different typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and satisfyingly silent operation, this switch offers a different yet equally enjoyable typing experience. Consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and visual appeal when making your decision between these two unique switches.
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