Gateron Luciola vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola and Gazzew U4Tx RGB present two distinct options catering to different typing preferences. The Gateron Luciola, a linear switch, is celebrated for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, complemented by a medium heft that provides a smooth, bouncy typing experience. Its sound profile, reminiscent of a “can of spray paint being shaken,” delivers a unique auditory sensation that makes each keystroke feel lively and engaging. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, a tactile switch, offers a luxurious typing experience with its deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a gentle tactile bump that signals actuation while remaining notably quiet. This switch resonates with users who prefer a more refined auditory feedback and the satisfaction of tactile engagement in their typing rhythm. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and visual flair; 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

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When analyzing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, it's clear that they utilize distinct proprietary blends that significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Luciola employs Gateron’s proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, which is characterized by a pointed and high-pitched sound that many users describe as "clacky." This uniformity in material suggests a consistency in the auditory experience, as both the upward and downward motions of keystrokes will produce a similar clackiness influenced by the INK blend's inherent properties.

In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB makes use of its proprietary plastic known as "boba plastic" for both top and bottom housings, which is specifically designed to offer a rich, deep sound profile due to its softness. This results in a more muted and smoother auditory experience compared to the sharpy sound signature of the Luciola. Here, the top housing influences sound when releasing the key, while the softer bottom housing enhances the bottoming-out experience, resulting in a strictly cohesive sound signature throughout the keystroke.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the two switches play a crucial role in shaping their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. Users familiar with the sharp and clacky sound of the Luciola will find a distinctly different acoustic experience in the U4Tx RGB’s soft, deep tones. However, if one were to swap the top or bottom housings between them and retain their mixing characteristics, it is possible to achieve a unique sound profile that combines fissures from both switches, allowing enthusiasts to tailor their experience to their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Luciola features a measured actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch, which can cater well to users seeking a balance between comfort and feedback during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has an unknown actuation force but has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating it is a medium-heavy switch, thus requiring more force to fully press down. As a result, users who appreciate a lighter touch may prefer the Luciola due to its lower actuation force, while those who favor a more substantial and resistant typing experience may lean towards the U4Tx RGB, given its heavier bottom out force. Overall, opting for a switch often boils down to personal preference regarding the feel and effort required for typing.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent experience in terms of key press depth when using either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, those who favor one type over the other will enjoy comparable results in terms of the overall feel and responsiveness of the keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers an intriguing auditory experience. Its hollow sound profile resembles the noise of a can of spray paint being shaken, accompanied by descriptions such as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. This combination results in a bright and percussive sound that adds a certain liveliness to the typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch remains silent on specific sound descriptors, which leaves the overall auditory impression less defined. However, U4Tx switches are characterized by their refined "thock" sound when bottoming out, promising a deeper resonance compared to the sharper tones of the Luciola.

In terms of feel, the Luciola excels with a medium heft that makes it engaging and responsive. Its typing experience offers a smooth and bouncy sensation, along with traits such as snappy, buttery, and polished keystrokes. This creates an impression of a switch that is designed for a fluid and seamless typing experience. The U4Tx RGB tactile switch, while lacking specific descriptors in the provided context, is known to offer a sharp tactile bump that enhances the overall typing feedback. This tactile feedback likely results in a distinctly different typing experience, leaning towards a more luxurious sensation compared to the bouncy feel of the Luciola.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Luciola and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB embody unique qualities that can cater to different preferences. The Luciola shines with its vibrant sound profile and engaging feel, perfect for those looking for a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a more refined auditory signature and luxurious tactile feedback, ideal for users seeking a deeper resonance with their keystrokes. While both switches may lead to enjoyable typing experiences, the choice ultimately boils down to whether one prefers the lively characteristics of the Luciola or the luxurious feel of the U4Tx.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and use cases. If you enjoy a smooth and responsive typing experience with a medium actuation force, and you are drawn to unique aesthetics, the Gateron Luciola is an excellent option. Its glowing feature and the lively "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile provide a fun and engaging typing experience, making it ideal for casual use and gaming. However, if you're looking for a more tactile sensation paired with a luxurious typing feel, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the better fit. With its medium-heavy actuation force and distinct "thock" sound, it delivers a refined acoustic experience that enhances focus and productivity, especially for typing-intensive tasks. In essence, choose the Luciola for a vibrant and enjoyable enterainment experience, while the U4Tx RGB is your best bet for a sophisticated typing feel and sound.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more