Gateron Luciola vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Luciola and Jwick Splash Brothers are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits for users. The Luciola stands apart with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark design, making it a visually striking option. This switch provides a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a distinct hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. In contrast, the Splash Brothers offer a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a highly responsive and satisfying typing experience. These switches emit a creamy sound signature, exuding a sense of elegance during use. While these general points provide a brief overview of each switch's standout qualities, it is important to delve deeper to determine which switch is best suited for an individual's specific preferences and requirements. So, let's explore further and delve into the intricacies of these switches to help you make the most informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
Compared to the Gateron Luciola, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches differ in terms of their housing materials. The Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. The Luciola's bottom housing also has the same INK blend as its top housing, while the Splash Brothers switches opt for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone.
When comparing the top housing of the Luciola and the Splash Brothers, it is clear that the polycarbonate used in the latter provides a sharper and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Conversely, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend creates a slightly less sharp and clacky sound. Moving on to the bottom housing, the nylon used in the Splash Brothers contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the INK blend in the Luciola's bottom housing offers a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky.
It is important to note that if a switch features different housing materials for its top and bottom, the properties of each material will be divided between the two. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while the Luciola and the Splash Brothers have distinct housing materials for their top and bottom, the overall sound and feel of both switches may have similar elements, but differ in terms of sharpness, pitch, and resonance.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Luciola has a medium actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. Its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers has an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to determine the exact force required for triggering a keystroke. However, its bottom out force is lighter at 48 grams, which results in a typing experience that is gentler on the fingers.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Splash Brothers can be advantageous for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. This allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This makes it an ideal option for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the contrary, the Luciola's slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel. This provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience that is preferred by some individuals.
Overall, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a medium level of resistance for both actuation and bottom out, providing a balanced typing experience. Meanwhile, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a lighter bottom out force, making it a suitable option for those seeking a gentler typing experience. However, since the actuation force for the Splash Brothers is unknown, it is difficult to directly compare it to the Luciola in this aspect. Nevertheless, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, the Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Splash Brothers has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance as they are very close in measurement. With a travel distance of 3.6 mm, the Gateron Luciola provides a slightly longer journey from top to bottom compared to the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers. This subtle difference in travel distance may not have a significant impact for most users, but it can be a factor to consider based on personal preference. If you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Jwick Splash Brothers would be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly deeper travel distance for a more satisfying keystroke experience, the Gateron Luciola would be the better option. Both switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose the travel distance that suits their specific needs and preferences.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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 switches are best described as having a hollow and resonant sound. This sound profile can be compared to the noise of shaking a can of spray paint. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches have a creamy sound signature. This sound is smooth and pleasing to the ear. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience. If you prefer a clacky and bright sound, the Luciola switches are a great choice. If you prefer a more neutral and creamy sound, the Splash Brothers switches would be the better option.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola switches are known for their smooth and bouncy typing experience. These switches have a medium heft and provide a snappy and buttery keystroke. They also have a polished finish, which results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience. They have a gentle resistance and provide a subtle and snappy feedback. Like the Luciola switches, the Splash Brothers also have a polished finish, contributing to a sleek typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Luciola and Jwick Splash Brothers switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience. The Luciola switches stand out with their hollow and resonant sound profile and bouncy and polished feel. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches offer a creamy sound signature and a mild and snappy typing feel. If you are looking for a more clacky and bright sound with a smooth and bouncy feel, the Luciola switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a neutral and creamy sound with a mild and snappy typing experience, the Splash Brothers switches would suit your preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy the unique glow-in-the-dark feature, the Luciola switch may be the right choice for you. It offers a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a distinctive "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem for a great typing feel, the Splash Brothers switch might be a better fit. It provides a creamy sound signature and a neutral sound profile that makes it suitable for various environments. Whether you prioritize a snappy, buttery, or polished feel, both switches offer a range of descriptors to cater to different preferences. Ultimately, you should consider your desired sound and feel when making your decision.
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