Gateron Luciola vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that not only offers a visually striking presence but also a unique typing experience, you may come across the Gateron Luciola and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches. The Gateron Luciola switch is known for its glowing feature in the dark, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a distinct sound profile reminiscent of a "can of spray paint being shaken." On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch sets itself apart with its smooth and creamy typing feel due to the innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. This switch also delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Each switch offers its own set of qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, it is clear that both switches prioritize a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. The Gateron Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing while the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a KTT blend top housing. Despite the different proprietary blends, both switches offer a similar satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. This indicates that users of either switch can expect a comparable auditory experience when typing.

However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Gateron Luciola incorporates its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which echoes the same characteristics as the top housing in providing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a POK bottom housing, known for its exceptional smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. While the bottom housing of the Luciola focuses on enhancing the bottom-out sound and feel, the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream contributes to a smooth, clacky, and long-lasting typing experience.

Overall, while the top housing materials may vary between the Gateron Luciola and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches ultimately deliver a similar high-pitched and clacky sound signature that many users appreciate. The differences in their bottom housing materials, however, offer unique advantages to each switch. Whether you prioritize a consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience (Luciola) or prioritize smoothness and durability (Vanilla Ice Cream), there is a housing material that caters to your preferences in either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter in both aspects. The Luciola switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is on the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the better choice. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Luciola switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those who prioritize fast response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. If you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Gateron Luciola may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar experience in terms of travel distance, so you can expect comparable results from either option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy sound profile, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a high-pitched and marbly sound that sets it apart from competitors. Both switches deliver a unique sound signature that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Luciola offering a sharper sound while the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a cleaner and more resonant tone.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is described as snappy and slightly buttery, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience. The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, on the other hand, provides a buttery and creamy typing sensation, thanks to the materials used in its construction and factory lubing process. Both switches aim to deliver a satisfying tactile feel to typists, with the Luciola offering a slightly more responsive and lively feel compared to the smoother and more effortless feel of the Vanilla Ice Cream.

Overall, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch each bring their own unique characteristics to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Luciola may have a slightly sharper and bouncier sound with a snappy feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a cleaner and creamier sound with a smoother and more effortless typing sensation. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to mechanical keyboards have a wide range of options to choose from to suit their individual preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to match your preferences. If you prefer a medium heft and a bouncy typing feel with a clacky and chirpy sound, the Luciola may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound, so choose the one that best fits your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more