Gateron Luciola vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Luciola and the Jwick Taro. The Luciola switches are truly unique with their eye-catching glow in the dark feature. Not only do they grab attention visually, but they also offer a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a distinct hollow sound profile reminiscent of shaking a can of spray paint. On the other hand, the Taro switches provide a cozy typing experience with their subdued color scheme. They offer a snappy, medium-level of tactility, resulting in acute and crisp clacks. While both switches have their own advantages and appeal, now it's time to dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch would best suit your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing material of the Gateron Luciola, known as the proprietary INK blend, creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. This thin and higher-pitched sound is not overly sharp, offering a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Taro features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. Overall, while both switches provide a higher-pitched sound, the Luciola's INK blend offers a more balanced and less sharp sound compared to the Taro's polycarbonate top housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Luciola again features its proprietary INK blend, providing a pointed and high-pitched, yet not excessively sharp sound profile. This enhances the overall clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The sound produced by switches with nylon bottom housing is duller and rounder. Therefore, while the Luciola's bottom housing contributes to the clacky typing sound, the Taro's nylon bottom housing creates a more muffled and robust sound.
If a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Luciola, the proprietary INK blend adds to the satisfying clacky sound when bottoming out. Conversely, the top housing material, whether it is polycarbonate in the Taro or the INK blend in the Luciola, will influence the sound when releasing a key. Although the specific qualities may differ, both switches showcase the impact of housing materials in providing distinct and audible sound profiles during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Taro is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Luciola requires 60 grams of force, whereas the Taro requires 67 grams, making it slightly heavier.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Luciola switch. With a lower actuation force and bottom out force, it allows for smoother and potentially longer typing sessions, suitable for situations like work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Taro switch. Its medium-heavy bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, giving a tactile feedback that some find satisfying.
If the actuation force of the Taro switch were also 55 grams or similar to that of the Luciola, the results would be quite comparable. In such a scenario, both switches would offer a similar keystroke trigger, allowing users to choose based on other factors such as design or price.
Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches highlight the differences in typing experiences they offer. While the Luciola provides a medium-weight option, the Taro offers a slightly heavier and more pronounced tactile response, catering to those who prefer a more forceful typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch have slight differences in their travel distance. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Taro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize fast response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Luciola with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to your keystrokes, the Taro's slightly longer travel distance may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
The Gateron Luciola linear switch is best known for its smooth and bouncy typing feel, and it produces a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. The sound is described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, the Luciola switch produces a sharp, snappy, and crisp sound. The feel of the Luciola switch is also described as snappy, buttery, and polished. It offers a super responsive typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a cozy typing experience with a snappy and medium level of tactility. The sound produced by the Taro switch is described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. It is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users.
Overall, both switches offer pleasant typing experiences. While the Luciola switch has a more distinct sound profile with its clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched characteristics, the Taro switch provides a neutral sound. In terms of feel, both switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Luciola switch is also snappy and polished, while the Taro switch is stepped, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
If you are looking for a switch with an eye-catching glow in the dark feature, the Luciola switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a tactile typing experience without any distinct sound characteristics, the Taro switch is a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider.
If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, both switches would be suitable options as they fall within the medium range. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier key press, the Taro with its bottom out force of 67 grams may be more to your liking.
In terms of sound, the Luciola offers a few distinct options. It can produce a clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched sound when pressed. These sound profiles add a unique acoustic element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a buttery typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, the Luciola also has a snappy feel, making it super responsive. Additionally, the Luciola can provide a polished typing experience due to its smooth and refined finish. The Taro switch, on the other hand, offers a stepped tactile feel, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Luciola and the Jwick Taro will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize an eye-catching glow, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and unique sound profiles, the Luciola may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a slightly heavier key press and a neutral sound profile, the Taro switch may be the better option. Consider these factors and choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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