Gateron Luciola vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro stand out as popular options in their respective categories. The Luciola is a linear switch known for its eye-catching glowing feature, medium heft, smooth typing feel, and unique sound profile reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro is a tactile switch offering a medium level of tactility, light touch, and a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a balanced typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but ultimately, the decision 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches differ significantly in terms of their sound profiles. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed, high-pitched, and clacky sound, while the Violet Gold Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing contributes to a similar sound profile as the top housing, while the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic material.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gateron Luciola and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches showcase different visual appeals with their housing materials. The Luciola's clear INK blend top housing may not be as visually striking as a polycarbonate top housing, but it still offers a unique look while providing a satisfying sound profile. In comparison, the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate top housing not only contributes to a sharper sound profile but also enhances the switch's appearance with its translucent quality. The Nylon bottom housing of the Violet Gold Pro may not be as visually appealing as the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing, but it does contribute to a different sound experience with its ability to absorb more sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and aesthetics. While the Luciola's INK blend top and bottom housing offer a similar sound profile, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials provides a different sound experience between the top and bottom of the switch. Both switches offer distinct visual appeals with their respective housing materials, making them suitable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a variety of sound profiles and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar medium-weight bottom out force, with the Luciola requiring 60 grams and the Violet Gold Pro's bottom out force being unknown. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Luciola for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Luciola. The Gateron Luciola's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and feel.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound with a unique squeak. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. When it comes to feel, the Luciola switch is described as snappy and buttery, offering a super responsive and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro switch is considered as stepped, providing a tactile sensation with two stages of feedback during keystrokes.
Overall, while the Gateron Luciola and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide their own unique typing experience. If you prefer a clacky and bouncy typing feel with a distinctive sound profile, the Luciola may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more moderate tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro could offer a balanced and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Luciola linear switch or the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a unique aesthetic with glow-in-the-dark capabilities, then the Luciola may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences when making your decision.
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