Gateron Luciola vs. Kailh Plum

Overview

The Gateron Luciola and Kailh Plum are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Luciola is widely recognized for its eye-catching glow in the dark feature, giving your keyboard an added visual flair. With a medium heft, this linear switch provides a smooth and bouncy typing experience, accompanied by a distinctive hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum stands out for its unique tactile feedback. Despite its hefty feel, this tactile switch surprisingly lacks a pronounced tactile bump, setting it apart from other tactile switches on the market. Its sound profile is described as neutral and enjoyable. These general pointers illustrate the fundamental differences between the two switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision about which switch would be the best fit for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Kailh Plum Tactile

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Kailh Plum switches offer distinct differences in their sound profiles and overall characteristics. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which results in a pointed, higher-pitched sound without being overly sharp. This creates a satisfying and clacky sound experience. In contrast, the Plum utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, crisper, and higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it an excellent choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Luciola again utilizes their proprietary INK blend material, which shares similar characteristics to its top housing. This results in a thin, higher-pitched, and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Plum switches incorporate a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile.

Although there are differences between the top and bottom housings of the two switches, it's important to note that each housing material contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Pressing down on either the Luciola or the Plum will primarily highlight the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific housing materials may differ, both the Luciola and the Plum offer unique sound profiles and ergonomic experiences that can be appreciated by keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. In contrast, the Plum's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.

Weight is an important factor to consider as it can greatly impact typing comfort and overall typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Luciola switch would be ideal. With its actuation force of 55 grams, it allows for extended periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for users who spend long hours typing at work or engaging in marathon gaming sessions.

On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more robust and substantial typing experience may prefer the Plum switch. While the actuation force is not specified, the higher bottom out force of 70 grams provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying keystroke.

It is worth noting that if the actuation forces of both switches were the same, users would achieve similar results in terms of typing experience. However, since the Luciola has a slightly lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Plum, it offers a slightly lighter touch overall. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience - whether one favors a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a heavier, more pronounced keystroke feel.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience in terms of travel distance. So, whether you opt for the Luciola or the Plum switch, you can expect similar results in terms of how the switch feels when typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola switch stands out with its unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile, which gives it a distinct clacky and chirpy sound. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, making it quite enjoyable for those who prefer a sharper and more vibrant sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound and won't be too loud or too soft. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola switch offers a smooth and bouncy typing experience. Its medium heft gives it a slightly more substantial feel, while the longer or dual-staged springs make it snappy and responsive. This combination creates a typing sensation that feels alive and energetic. Additionally, the Luciola switch is described as buttery, meaning it provides a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, typing on these switches feels polished and refined. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a more mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. It doesn't feature a pronounced tactile bump like some other tactile switches, but instead offers a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. The Plum switch is also described as stepped, meaning you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a more subtle and nuanced tactile experience.

Taking into consideration the available information, the Gateron Luciola switch offers a unique sound profile with its clacky and chirpy characteristics, while the Kailh Plum switch provides a neutral and enjoyable sound. In terms of feel, the Luciola switch offers a snappy and buttery typing experience, with a polished and refined finish. On the other hand, the Plum switch delivers a mild and stepped tactile feel that falls within a safe middle-ground. Both switches have their own distinct qualities, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a sharper and more vibrant sound with a smooth and bouncy typing sensation, the Luciola switch would be ideal. However, if you prefer a neutral sound and a more gentle and nuanced tactile experience, the Plum switch would be a great choice. Regardless of the switch chosen, the overall typing experience can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, both options would suit your needs.

The Luciola switch is best known for its eye-catching glow in the dark feature, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a unique hollow sound profile. It is described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched in terms of sound. If you prefer a keyboard switch that produces sharp and crisp sounds when pressed, the Luciola switch would be a great choice. Additionally, the Luciola switch is described as snappy, buttery, and polished in terms of feel. This means that it offers a super responsive typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel.

On the other hand, the Plum switch stands out for its unique combination of a hefty feel and a moderate tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum switch does not have an exaggerated tactile bump. Its sound profile is described as neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. If you prefer a switch with a more gentle typing experience and a mild tactile feel, the Plum switch would be a good fit.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a visually stunning switch with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, and enjoy a sharper sound profile, the Luciola switch would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique combination of weightiness and a moderate tactile feel, and enjoy a more neutral sound profile, the Plum switch would be a suitable choice. Consider the factors that are most important to you, and make your decision based on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more