Gateron Luciola vs. Gateron Type A

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola and Gateron Type A both offer unique features for different preferences. The Luciola stands out with its glowing design, medium heft, smooth typing feel, and distinctive sound profile that resembles a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Type A is part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offering a reimagined travel distance and factory lubing techniques for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. While the Luciola is known for its snappy and clacky feel, the Type A provides a more neutral and subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Gateron Type A Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$4.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Gateron Type A switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.

Similarly, the bottom housing of the Gateron Luciola and Gateron Type A switches also showcase differences in sound profiles. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Type A's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience. This demonstrates how the material composition of the bottom housing can significantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, enhancing the overall typing experience in unique ways.

Overall, the choice of housing material for switches, whether it be the top or bottom housing, plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing feel of mechanical keyboards. While the Gateron Luciola and Type A switches utilize different housing materials, the impact of these materials on sound and feel is evident in the distinct characteristics of each switch. Understanding how materials like proprietary INK blend and nylon can influence the overall typing experience can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.

Weight

In comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we find that the Luciola has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Type A. The Luciola requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Type A needs 50 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium range of force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Type A would be the better option, as it has slightly lighter actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Luciola would be the choice with its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of typing force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Type A linear switch. The Luciola offers a more responsive typing experience, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Type A switch provides a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing sensation based on their travel distance, with the Luciola being the shorter option and the Type A being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy profile, giving a sharp and bright sound when pressed. In contrast, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for various environments. The Luciola switch has a more resonant and high-pitched sound, while the Type A leans towards a deeper tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing environment.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is praised for its snappy and buttery typing experience, providing a responsive and smooth keystroke feel. Additionally, the Luciola switch offers a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and sleek key travel. On the other hand, information on the typing feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available. However, considering the reputation of Gateron switches, it can be assumed that the Type A linear switch will provide a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.

Taking into account the sound and feel characteristics of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the limited information available on the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique qualities. The Luciola switch is highlighted by its clacky sound and snappy feel, appealing to those who prefer a more lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A switch is described as having a deeper sound profile and a neutral typing feel, catering to users looking for a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for switches that glow in the dark, the Luciola may be the right choice for you. The Luciola also offers a clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched sound profile, along with a snappy, buttery, or polished typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are seeking a switch with a more neutral or subdued sound profile, the Type A could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type A Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more