Gateron Luciola vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Luciola and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Luciola switches are not only visually striking with their glow-in-the-dark feature, but they also provide a medium heft that creates a smooth and bouncy typing experience. Their distinctive sound profile, characterized by a blend of snappy and clacky tones, gives an added layer of auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, while also a linear switch, impresses with its all-POM construction that promotes durability and a thocky sound profile, appealing to those who appreciate a deeper, more muted auditory response. With its emphasis on smoothness and affordability, the Sea Salt Smoothie breaks the price barrier without compromising on quality. Both switches have their merits, depending on whether you prioritize aesthetics and sound or smoothness and durability. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, significant differences emerge that influence the overall sound and feel of each switch. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which produces a distinctive high-pitched and pointed sound profile. This results in a clacky acoustic experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. The POM material, while still providing a pleasing sound, is characterized by a deeper and more muted acoustic profile. This divergence in materials suggests that while both switches can deliver enjoyable listening experiences, the nature of those experiences will differ markedly.

The impact of these housing materials on the switches manifests in both sound and tactile feedback. For the Gateron Luciola, the pointed, high-pitched sound generated by the INK blend materials contributes to a lively and sharp auditory cue upon key release, making it ideal for users seeking a more dynamic typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie's muted sound profile emerges from the softer characteristics of the POM housing, which absorbs some of the higher frequencies, resulting in an overall smoother and less jarring auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches might provide a gratifying typing experience, the Luciola offers a sharp clarity that contrasts deeply with the Sea Salt Smoothie's subdued warmth.

If both products were to employ the same materials for their top and bottom housings, one would expect to attain similar acoustic results due to the consistent characteristics of the housing. However, since they utilize distinctly different materials, the result is a diversification of sound properties and tactile feedback, enhancing the individuality of each switch. The Luciola's clacky sound could be perceived as less muted, providing an invigorating typing feel, while the Sea Salt Smoothie's deeper sound generates a cozy and subdued atmosphere. In conclusion, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile engagement rather than a comparison of their performance, as both have unique qualities attributable to their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, significant differences in actuation force are evident. The Luciola requires an actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 60 grams, positioning it as a medium-weight switch ideal for users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie boasts a lighter actuation force of 48 grams; however, its bottom out force remains unknown. This makes the Luciola the heavier option, while the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a lighter touch, catering to those who prefer less resistance and potentially longer typing sessions. For users who enjoy a more forceful feedback, the Luciola would be a recommended choice, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie may appeal to those seeking a more effortless keypress, especially in extended use scenarios. If the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie were available, it could provide further insight into its overall typing feel in comparison to the Luciola.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Luciola the shorter option, catering to users who prefer quicker response times, which can be especially advantageous for gamers seeking rapid actuation. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie, with its longer 3.7 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who favor a more pronounced feel and depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your preference for response time versus a more substantial keystroke experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Luciola linear switch produces a unique sound profile that is characterized by its hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" acoustic signature, giving it a clacky and slightly chirpy quality. This sound can be quite engaging, as it resonates with a distinct percussive nature. The high-pitched tones contribute a bright and sharp auditory experience, which can be enjoyable for users who appreciate a more crisp auditory feedback during typing. When comparing to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, there is limited information available about its sound profile, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons; however, without any descriptions to indicate otherwise, it is possible that its auditory characteristics may differ significantly from the Luciola's vibrant and playful sounds.

Regarding the feel of these switches, the Gateron Luciola is noted for its medium heft, providing a smooth and bouncy typing experience. The description of the switch also highlights its snappy quality, suggesting that it offers a responsive keystroke that makes typing feel lively and engaged. Moreover, it possesses a buttery smoothness and a polished finish, ensuring minimal friction and a satisfying keystroke. Conversely, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Sea Salt Smoothie, so any comparisons regarding typing experience or feedback mechanisms between the two are left unknown.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch shines with its engaging sound profile and well-rounded feel—offering a lively, responsive typing experience—the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch lacks accessible details regarding its sound and feel. This suggests that while both switches may appeal to different user preferences, the Luciola provides a more quantifiable experience based on the information available. Thus, for those seeking a dynamic auditory and tactile experience, the Luciola stands out, while the Sea Salt Smoothie remains an option that is yet to be fully described.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Gateron Luciola and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and aesthetics. If you value a visually striking switch and enjoy a medium heft with a bouncy, lively typing experience, the Luciola would be your ideal pick. Its unique glow-in-the-dark feature and clacky, high-pitched sound profile make it a great option for those who want their keyboard to stand out both in appearance and audio feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, quiet typing experience with a "thocky" sound, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is likely more suitable for you. This switch is engineered for exceptional smoothness and delivers a satisfying auditory experience without the sharpness associated with the Luciola. Therefore, consider the tactile and auditory aspects that matter most to you: choose Luciola for a vibrant and responsive typing feel with a distinctive sound, or opt for the Sea Salt Smoothie if you prefer a refined, smooth keystroke with a deeper acoustic profile. Ultimately, your decision will reflect your typing style and aesthetic preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more