Gateron Luciola vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Wuque Studio WS Brown 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 Wuque Studio WS Brown. The Luciola switches are highly recognizable due to their ability to glow in the dark. They offer a medium heft, providing a satisfying and bouncy typing feel. The sound profile of the Luciola switches can be compared to a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken”, adding a unique auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown switches showcase a blend of familiarity and innovation. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches strike a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring fatigue-free typing during long sessions. The WS Brown switches also offer a delightful auditory experience, cherished by enthusiasts for its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches differ in terms of sound profile and feel. The Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound. In contrast, the WS Brown features nylon top and bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material that absorbs more sound. Therefore, while the Luciola produces a thin and higher-pitched sound, the WS Brown offers a duller and rounder sound.
Another point of comparison between the two switch models lies in the impact of the housing materials on the switch's overall performance. With the Luciola, the qualities of the proprietary INK blend are distributed between the top and bottom housing, influencing both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key and the sound when releasing the key. Conversely, in the WS Brown, the impact of the nylon housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Thus, the allocation of qualities between the top and bottom housing varies between the two switches.
However, despite these differences, there are similarities in the results that can be achieved with both the Gateron Luciola and the Wuque Studio WS Brown. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with varying sound profiles. Additionally, both housing materials, whether it be the proprietary INK blend of the Luciola or the nylon of the WS Brown, enhance the overall performance and sound quality of the switches. So, while the specifics may differ, users can expect a level of quality and satisfaction when using either of these switch models.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the actuation force for the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch is unknown. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Luciola having a bottom out force of 60 grams and the WS Brown having a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals may prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it allows for a smoother and more effortless keystroke. The Gateron Luciola would be a suitable choice for those looking for a lighter switch, as its actuation force is on the lighter side of the medium range.
On the other hand, there are users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may find satisfaction in switches with heavier forces, as they provide a greater tactile feedback and a more controlled typing experience. Although the exact actuation force of the WS Brown switch is unknown, its medium-light bottom out force suggests that it may offer a relatively lighter actuation force compared to the Luciola.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a known actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams. While the Luciola is lighter in terms of actuation force, the WS Brown may provide a relatively lighter actuation experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent times, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, it is important to note that the shorter travel distance of the Luciola may provide a more responsive feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, some individuals may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the WS Brown switch, as it offers a more substantial and less abrupt sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference, with the decision hinging on whether one prioritizes a quicker response or a deeper key press.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 known for its smooth and bouncy typewriting feel. It offers a medium heft, providing a satisfying level of resistance while typing. As for the sound, these switches have a unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile, which is characterized by a hollow, crisp, and percussive sound when pressed. This sound profile is often preferred by enthusiasts who enjoy a distinctive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch offers a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort during extended typing sessions. However, specific information regarding the sound and feel of the WS Brown switch is unavailable.
Based on the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Luciola and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches have different subjective qualities. While the Luciola provides a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a unique hollow sound, the WS Brown promises a balance between responsiveness and comfort, although details about its sound and feel are unknown. If you prefer a switch that offers a distinctive auditory experience and a medium heft, the Luciola would be a suitable choice. However, if you prioritize comfort and responsiveness, the WS Brown could be a good option. Keep in mind that the final sound and feel can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a unique visual appeal, the Gateron Luciola linear switch may be the right choice for you. These switches offer a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with a distinct sound profile that can be described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched. Additionally, the Luciola switches have the added benefit of glowing in the dark, making them visually striking.
On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort and fatigue-free typing, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch may be more suitable for you. With a slightly lower bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches strike a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort. Their familiar and delightful auditory experience, characterized by a nylon housing and POM stem combination, is highly cherished by enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola and Wuque Studio WS Brown switches depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you value the unique visual appeal and distinct sound of the Luciola switches or the comfort and fatigue-free typing experience provided by the WS Brown switches, both options offer their own advantages. Consider your typing style, desired tactile feedback, and aesthetic preferences when making your decision. In the end, choosing the right switch will enhance your overall typing experience and satisfaction.
Mentioned in this article
