Gateron Luciola vs. Gateron Quinn

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Luciola and the Gateron Quinn. The Luciola is known for its eye-catching feature of glowing in the dark, while the Quinn offers a unique combination of crisp light switch-like tactility and a deep resonant sound profile. The Luciola provides a medium heft and a smooth and bouncy typing feel, accompanied by a distinct hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound. On the other hand, the Quinn switch delivers a precise and clean tactile bump, with each keystroke producing a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. Each switch has its own merits, making it ideal for different preferences and needs. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on the most suitable switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Gateron Quinn differ in terms of the top and bottom housings. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It offers a satisfying thin and clacky sound when typing on the switches. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Luciola and Quinn switch also vary. The Luciola incorporates the same proprietary INK blend bottom housing as its top housing, providing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This adds to the clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the switches.

Overall, while the Luciola and Quinn differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles. The Luciola's INK blend housing delivers a thinner and higher-pitched sound, while the Quinn's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches have their distinct clacky typing experience thanks to their proprietary INK blend bottom housing and nylon bottom housing, respectively. So, despite the differences in materials, users can expect similar results in terms of the satisfying clackiness when typing on either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Quinn has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy range.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Luciola switch would be a suitable option. With a lower actuation and bottom out force, it offers a smoother and more effortless keystroke. This can be particularly advantageous for individuals who spend long hours typing, such as professionals or gamers.

However, for those who enjoy a bit more resistance and a tactile feedback, the Quinn switch would be a better fit. With a higher actuation and bottom out force, it provides a more substantial typing experience. This can be appealing to individuals who appreciate a slightly heavier push feel and the added tactile sensation.

Although the forces may differ between the two switches, it is worth noting that both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. Thus, if individuals are looking for a similar result with regards to actuation and bottom out forces, they can expect comparable outcomes with either the Luciola or Quinn switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience – whether a lighter touch or a stronger push feel is desired.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have different travel distances. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times, especially among gamers who seek faster response times. If you prioritize a highly responsive typing experience, opting for the Quinn with its slightly shorter travel distance may be beneficial. However, it's important to note that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. In such cases, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke feel, the Luciola with its 3.6 mm travel distance might be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Luciola linear switch is best known for its smooth and bouncy typing feel, providing a medium heft that creates a satisfying feedback when pressed. It produces a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile, which adds a unique auditory experience to typing. This switch is also eye-catching, as it glows in the dark. Overall, the Luciola switch offers a pleasant typing experience with a distinct sound profile.

On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a different set of qualities. It combines a crisp and light switch-like tactility with a deep and resonant sound profile. The specially designed nylon housings contribute to the rich and immersive sound that accompanies each keystroke. With the Quinn switch, users can expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump that adds character to their typing experience.

Comparing the sound qualities, the Luciola switch is described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound, with bright and percussive characteristics. On the other hand, the Quinn switch is described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is also sharp and crisp in its sound profile.

When it comes to feel, both switches share some similarities. They are described as snappy and polished, offering a super responsive and smooth typing experience. The polished finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek and refined typing sensation. The Luciola switch is also described as buttery, indicating a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similarly, the Quinn switch is described as accented, indicating a medium amount of tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Quinn switch is also described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation.

In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola switch provides a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a unique hollow sound profile. It also features a glowing feature in the dark. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. Both switches have their own merits, based on personal preferences and typing style. However, if you prefer a similar sound and feel to the Quinn switch but want a linear switch, the Luciola switch can provide a comparable experience with its smooth and bouncy typing feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a unique and eye-catching feature, as well as a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a distinct sound profile, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is the one for you. These switches offer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and are known for their glow-in-the-dark capability. The Luciola switches provide a medium heft and a hollow sound profile akin to a can of spray paint being shaken. In terms of sound, they are described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. As for feel, they are characterized as snappy, buttery, and polished.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a precise and clean tactile bump accompanied by a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the one to choose. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the Quinn switches offer a combination of crisp tactility and a rich, immersive sound. Their specially designed nylon housings contribute to the deep sound profile. Sound-wise, they are described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant. In terms of feel, they are known for being snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and visual appeal. Consider whether you value a unique glow-in-the-dark feature and a bouncy typing feel with a distinct sound profile, or if you prefer a precise tactile bump accompanied by a deep and resonant sound. Take into account the specific descriptors that resonate with your preferences, such as clacky, high-pitched, snappy, or buttery. By understanding the characteristics and qualities of each switch, you can make an informed decision that enhances your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more