Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both are linear switches offering different characteristics. The Gateron Luciola stands out with its glowing feature in the dark, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and unique sound profile reminiscent of a "can of spray paint being shaken." On the other hand, the Outemu Silver does not have any particular standout features but provides a different typing experience. If you prefer a more distinctive and visually appealing switch, the Gateron Luciola might be the way to go. 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
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Silver switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Luciola uses a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Silver utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound due to the material's stiffness. The Luciola's bottom housing, also made of the proprietary INK blend, contributes to its unique sound profile, while the Silver's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of clear housing in switches is a key indicator of polycarbonate material. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a popular choice for switches designed with lighting effects in mind. On the other hand, nylon bottom housings offer a classic switch housing material that prioritizes sound quality over appearance. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller but fuller sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a more subdued typing experience.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Silver switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of characteristics, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile or a deeper and fuller tone, both switches provide distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Luciola requires a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silver's 45 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Luciola registers a lower force of 60 grams compared to the Silver's 65 grams. The Luciola can be considered a medium-weight switch, striking a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, while the Silver leans towards the medium-heavy end due to its higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Silver switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Luciola. Both switches offer a similar experience in terms of actuation force, ensuring that users can expect comparable results in that aspect. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Luciola has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silver. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, especially gamers looking for faster response times, that 0.4 mm can make a difference. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Luciola, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper feel may opt for the Silver. Overall, both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, catering to different preferences for keyboard users.
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 Silver 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 offers a distinctive combination of clackiness, chirpiness, marbly resonance, and high-pitched crispness. These sound profiles give the typing experience a unique auditory texture that can be both satisfying and engaging. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound characteristics are currently unknown.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Luciola switch boasts a typing experience that is described as snappy, buttery, and polished. The snappy response, smooth keystrokes, and refined finish of these switches contribute to a typing sensation that is lively, effortless, and sleek. Unfortunately, there is no available information about the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a distinct typing experience characterized by its unique sound profile and smooth, responsive feel. If you are looking for switches with these specific qualities, the Luciola would be a great choice. However, without information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. In cases where both switches have unknown qualities, it is likely that you would achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel between the two. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Luciola and Outemu Silver switches would depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Luciola linear switch or the Outemu Silver linear switch, keep in mind that the Luciola offers a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the 65 grams of the Silver. If you prefer a switch that has a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and produces clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched sound profiles, then the Gateron Luciola may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are indifferent to sound and feel characteristics, the Outemu Silver could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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