Gateron Luciola vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Luciola and the SP-Star Yanyu are both linear switches that offer unique qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Luciola stands out with its glowing feature, making it visually appealing in dark environments. With a medium heft, this switch provides a smooth and bouncy typing experience that is accompanied by a distinctive hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is perfect for those who prefer a more delicate typing experience or need to type for long periods of time. Its material blend gives it a crisp sound profile that is categorized as "Neutral," "Mild," "Thocky," "Feathery," "Subtle," and "Polished." Both switches offer their own advantages, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your personal preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in terms of composition. The Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend is known for providing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile without being overly sharp, resulting in a clacky sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its top and bottom housing. This unique blend offers a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side, with a less sharp characteristic.
In terms of sound profile, both switches have their distinct qualities. The Luciola's INK blend top and bottom housing contribute to a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. Meanwhile, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top and bottom housing produce a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. Both switches offer unique sound experiences, albeit with slightly different tonal characteristics.
When it comes to the physical feel of the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing material, whether it be the INK blend in the Luciola or the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in the Yanyu, will be more prominent when pressing down on the switch. It affects the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a tactile response to the user. Conversely, the top housing material has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the housing materials of the switches impact the overall typing experience.
In summary, while the Gateron Luciola and the SP-Star Yanyu have different housing materials, they offer distinct yet enjoyable sound profiles. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing produce a clacky sound, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top and bottom housing generate a brighter-toned sound. Additionally, the bottom housing material contributes more to the bottom-out feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches deliver unique typing experiences thanks to their individual housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches, there are significant differences to consider. The Gateron Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu has an unavailable actuation force and a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is considerably lighter.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu would be the preferable choice, as its lower bottom out force allows for easier and quicker keystrokes. This is particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on the fingers and allows for longer periods of comfortable use.
However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and pronounced typing experience, the Gateron Luciola may be the better option. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a stronger push feel, giving users a tactile feedback that some find more satisfying. This can be especially appealing for individuals who prefer a heavier switch and enjoy the added stability and assurance it offers.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and individual typing style. While the Gateron Luciola offers a medium-weight option suitable for those seeking a balanced typing experience, the lighter SP-Star Yanyu provides a smoother and lighter touch. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer their unique benefits, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users alike.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have different travel distances. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Luciola. In terms of preferences, shorter travel distances are favored by gamers who require faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Luciola would be the better option for you due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper keypress may find the Yanyu more suitable with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. This means that when you press the key, it produces a hollow and slightly metallic sound that is crisp and percussive. Additionally, the Luciola can also be described as clacky and chirpy, adding to its distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a crisp sound profile. While there is no specific descriptor provided, we can infer that the Yanyu has a more neutral sound compared to the Luciola.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its smooth and bouncy typing experience. This indicates that the switch has a snappy and responsive feel due to the use of longer or dual-staged springs. It can also be described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Furthermore, the Luciola is recognized for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing feel. Similarly, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is also described as polished, suggesting a smooth and refined finish. It is also labeled as mild, indicating a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Yanyu's feathery attribute suggests that it is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Taking into consideration the available information, the Gateron Luciola and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola provides a distinctive hollow and metallic sound profile, while the Yanyu has a more neutral sound. In terms of feel, the Luciola offers a snappy and buttery typing experience with its smooth and bouncy feel, while the Yanyu provides a mild and feathery typing sensation. Both switches also share the attribute of being polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, and both can offer a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a great choice. The Luciola switches are known for their eye-catching glow in the dark feature, as well as their medium bottom out force of 60 grams. These switches also produce a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience or plan to type for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be a better fit. With a light bottom out force of 43 grams, these switches offer a comfortable and gentle typing feel. Additionally, the Yanyu switches have a crisp sound profile, particularly described as "neutral" or "thocky," providing a satisfying auditory experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola and the SP-Star Yanyu switches depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Consider whether you lean towards a smoother and bouncier typing experience with medium heft or a more delicate and light feel. Additionally, think about the sound profile you prefer, whether it be the unique clacky, chirpy, or marbly sound of the Luciola, or the neutral or thocky sound of the Yanyu. By considering these factors, you can select the switch that best suits your typing needs.
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