Gateron Luciola vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the vibrant world of mechanical keyboards, two standout linear switches are the Gateron Luciola and the HMX SU, each with unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Gateron Luciola is not only functional but also visually striking, as its glow-in-the-dark feature can add a playful touch to any setup. With a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing feel, it offers an engaging experience along with a distinctive sound reminiscent of a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken,” appealing to those who enjoy a bit of auditory flair while typing. In contrast, the HMX SU switch shines with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, providing a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that emphasizes a more subdued auditory experience, perfect for users who prefer quieter typing sessions. While the Luciola caters to those who appreciate a more vibrant, expressive feel, the HMX SU leans towards minimalistic and refined performance. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the HMX SU, we observe notable differences that significantly affect the auditory characteristics produced by each switch. The Gateron Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top and bottom housings, which is characterized by a pointed, high-pitched sound profile. This combination aims to create a clacky auditory experience that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the HMX SU features nylon housing for both its top and bottom, yielding a sound profile that is deeper and fuller. This difference in materials means that while the Luciola may appeal to those who prefer a crisper sound, the SU caters to users seeking a more muted and rounded auditory feedback.
The variation in the materials also affects the tactile experience and sound upon key release and bottoming out. For the Luciola switches, the high-pitched qualities are more pronounced when releasing a key, due to the lighter and more resonant properties of the INK blend. Its relatively rigid structure enhances the clackiness upon key release while maintaining a similar profile during key presses. Conversely, the nylon used in the HMX SU offers a softer tactile experience, dampening the impact both during release and bottom-out. This results in a smoother experience that minimizes sharpness, which can be beneficial for those who seek a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
Despite these disparities in materials, users can achieve similar outcomes if they strategically combine the switches within their keyboard setup. For example, placing Gateron Luciola switches alongside HMX SU switches can create a hybrid typing experience that balances the clacky sound of the Luciola with the deep, rounded tones of the SU. This juxtaposition allows users to appreciate the distinct qualities of both types of housing materials, offering a tailored auditory experience by maximizing the unique contributions of each. In essence, while the inherent characteristics of the housings differ significantly, skillful pairing can yield a satisfying synthesis of sound profiles that caters to a wide range of preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch present a notable contrast in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Luciola features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX SU is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference in weight means that typists and gamers seeking prolonged comfort may prefer the lighter HMX SU, while those desiring a more substantial push feel during typing might gravitate towards the heavier Luciola. Despite the difference in forces, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, but users will need to choose based on their preferences for lightness or substantiality in keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience the same distance traveled for both switches, leading to similar tactile feedback and engagement during use. As both switches share this equal travel distance, they provide comparable performance in terms of keypress depth, ensuring that users seeking a certain typing experience will find consistency between the two.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 switches have a unique auditory profile characterized by a hollow quality reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. This results in an overall clacky, chirpy, and high-pitched sound that can add a lively, engaging atmosphere to your typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU switches have a more subtle and relatively deep sound profile, the specifics of which are less detailed. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Luciola is likely to stand out more due to its sharper and more percussive sounds, whereas the SU may resonate more quietly depending on your board and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola switches excel with their medium heft and smooth, bouncy typing sensation. Users may find them snappy and buttery, delivering a responsive and fluid keystroke experience that feels lively and enjoyable. The polished finish likely further enhances this sense of smoothness, reducing friction for a seamless typing journey. Meanwhile, the HMX SU switches lack detailed descriptors regarding their tactile sensation, leaving an unknown in this category. However, regardless of this gap in information, the Luciola's well-rounded feel may provide a more satisfying typing experience compared to the enigmatic qualities of the SU.
In conclusion, if you're drawn to a more vibrant and expressive sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switches are likely your best bet, combined with a pleasingly responsive and fluid feel. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches remain shrouded in partial mystery, particularly concerning their tactile feedback and specifics on sound, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches may come down to personal preferences in auditory engagement and the tactile satisfaction you're seeking, as the Luciola provides a more detailed experience in both aspects.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Luciola linear switches and HMX SU linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience that feels smooth yet responsive, the Luciola could be the ideal option for you. With its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, it offers a nice balance of heft that contributes to a satisfying feel, especially for those who appreciate a bit of engagement with each keystroke. The unique glowing feature adds an aesthetic appeal, perfect for those who like a visually striking keyboard. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky or chirpy sound profile that provides a lively auditory feedback while typing, the Luciola will enhance your overall typing experience with its vibrant acoustics.
On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch while typing, the HMX SU with its 50-gram bottom-out force might be more suitable. The full PA12 housing and T5 stem create an acoustically subtle sound profile, which is ideal if you prefer a quieter typing environment. This lightness can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions, making it an attractive choice for those who type extensively or prefer quick, effortless key presses. In essence, if you prioritize a lively, engaging typing feel and an eye-catching design, go for the Luciola. Conversely, if you seek a quiet, smooth, and less physically demanding switch, the HMX SU is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should align with what you find most enjoyable and comfortable in your typing experience.
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