Gateron Luciola vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Luciola and SP-Star Duck are two popular options for mechanical keyboard switches. The Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow in the dark feature, making it a unique choice for those who want a visually striking keyboard. It offers a medium heft, providing a satisfying typing feel that is both smooth and bouncy. The sound profile of the Luciola can best be described as resembling a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken”. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile typing experience. If you prefer a gentler tactile feedback while typing and a cleaner, crispy sound profile, the Duck switches are a perfect fit for you. They have a neutral and mild tactile feel and are often described as buttery and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Luciola and the SP-Star Duck differ in terms of their housing materials. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This leads to a satisfying thin and clacky sound when typing. In contrast, the Duck utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It also enhances the resonance and clarity of the typing experience. Both switches offer different characteristics in terms of sound, with the Luciola having a slightly less sharp and more well-rounded profile compared to the Duck.
Although the housing materials of the Luciola and the Duck differ, they both contribute to a higher-pitched sound profile. The polycarbonate used in the Duck's top and bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the proprietary INK blend in the Luciola's top and bottom housing generates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While the exact qualities of the sound may vary slightly, users can expect a clacky and satisfying typing experience from both switches. Additionally, the top housing of both switches affects the sound when a key is released, providing a distinct auditory feedback.
In terms of aesthetics, the Duck's polycarbonate top housing offers the advantage of translucency. This makes it ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting, as the clear housing allows for better light transmission, creating vibrant and visually appealing effects. On the other hand, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing does not provide this translucency. However, both switches offer a sleek and modern appearance, enhancing the overall visual appeal of any keyboard they are used in. Ultimately, whether you prefer the unique sound profile and non-translucent housing of the Luciola or the sharper sound and transparent housing of the Duck depends on your personal preference and specific keyboard requirements.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both falling under the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Duck switch is unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, the bottom out force of the Duck switch is slightly lighter at 58 grams, also classified as medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Luciola switch would be a suitable choice as both its actuation and bottom out forces are slightly higher than the Duck switch. This allows for a more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals looking for a more substantial push feel might lean towards the Duck switch, as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. This heavier force provides a more satisfying and tactile typing experience.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Duck switch is unknown, both switches fall within the medium force range, providing a balance between ease of keystrokes and a satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver the desired results, whether it be a lighter and more effortless or a heavier and more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Comparing the two, it is clear that the Duck has a longer travel distance. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional and provides a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Luciola's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance is preferred by gamers who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses and therefore a more responsive experience. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Luciola to be too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique and distinct experience. It is known for producing a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile, which is characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. This clacky and chirpy sound sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a more subtle sound profile. It is described as clean and crispy, providing a quieter and more understated typing experience compared to the Luciola switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a smooth and bouncy typing experience. It is often described as snappy and buttery, thanks to its super responsive nature and smooth keystroke. The switch's medium heft adds to the overall typing feel, making it feel more alive and dynamic. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls into a safe middle-ground zone, offering a gentle tactile feedback while maintaining a smooth and fluid keystroke. Both switches are also described as polished, indicating a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Luciola switch stands out with its clacky and chirpy sound profile, as well as its snappy and buttery typing feel. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a clean and crispy sound with a more mild and approachable typing experience. Both switches are polished, offering a smooth and refined keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference for sound and typing feel. However, if you prefer a similar typing experience, the Duck switch can provide a more subtle and toned-down version of the Luciola switch's qualities.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is an excellent choice for those who prefer a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a unique hollow sound profile. Additionally, if you are someone who appreciates switches that glow in the dark, the Luciola switches are sure to catch your eye. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch might be the better option for you. These switches offer a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile. Furthermore, if you prefer switches with a medium actuation force and a smooth and refined typing experience, both the Luciola and Duck switches meet these criteria. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preference for sound, feel, and visual aesthetics. Overall, you can't go wrong with either the Gateron Luciola or SP-Star Duck switches as they both provide quality and enjoyable typing experiences.
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