Zuoce Lavender vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch with the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is clear that they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Luciola switches are eye-catching with their glowing feature and offer a medium heft, smooth typing feel, and a distinct sound profile. While the Lavender is categorized as 'easy-to-press' and 'clacky', the Luciola is characterized by being 'snappy', 'chirpy', 'buttery', and more. 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
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Luciola switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Lavender utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, creating a deep and muted sound that is pleasing to the ear. In comparison, the Luciola switches feature Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Despite these differences, both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall acoustic experience of a mechanical keyboard.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the sound profile created by their top and bottom housings. The Lavender's POM top and bottom housings work together to produce a consistent deep and muted sound throughout typing. In contrast, the Luciola's INK blend top and bottom housings offer a more dynamic experience, with the top housing contributing to the sound when releasing a key while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. This highlights how the choice of housing material can affect not only the sound but also the tactile feedback of a switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Luciola switches play a crucial role in defining their unique characteristics. While the Lavender's POM housings create a more uniform and subdued sound profile, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend housings offer a more varied and nuanced auditory experience. Both switches showcase the importance of considering all aspects of switch design, including housing materials, to achieve the desired typing feel and sound quality. Whether opting for the deep and muted sound of the Lavender or the sharp and clacky sound of the Luciola, users can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch differ slightly in weight. The Lavender switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Luciola's 55 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Lavender requires a force of 53 grams, which is lighter than the Luciola's 60 grams. This means that while the Lavender switch may feel lighter to type on, the Luciola may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is clear that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Luciola has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more abrupt and responsive feel, the Lavender may be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a bit more depth and cushion when pressing down on a key, the Luciola with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable for you. Overall, both switches offer similar performance, with the main difference lying in the subtle variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and satisfying keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch also delivers a clacky sound but with additional characteristics such as chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched tones. While both switches offer a distinctive auditory experience, the Luciola switch adds some unique sound profiles to the mix.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance and light actuation force for a comfortable and low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola switch is described as snappy, buttery, and polished, providing a super responsive typing experience with smooth and fluid key presses. Both switches aim to enhance typing efficiency and reduce finger fatigue, but the Luciola switch adds a livelier feel to the typing sensation.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp sound, creating a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique combination of clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched sound profiles, along with a snappy, buttery, and polished feel for a more dynamic typing experience. Whether you choose the Lavender or Luciola switch, you can expect a premium mechanical keyboard switch with top-notch performance and reliability.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound, and feel preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, clacky typing experience right out of the box, the Lavender switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a switch that offers a bouncy, snappy feel with unique sound profiles like chirpy and marbly, the Luciola switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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