Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Lunar Probe offer unique experiences for users. The BSUN Avocado switches are well-known for their tactile nature, offering a satisfying bump and buttery downstroke that delivers excellent feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches feature a dual rail mechanism for stable keypresses and a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation. While the Avocado is characterized by its accentuated tactile feel, the Lunar Probe focuses on consistency and smoothness. Both switches have their own merits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Lunar Probe is in their housing materials. Both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to shine through. On the other hand, the Avocado has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing that provides a similar typing experience with a rounder sound quality.
In terms of sound and aesthetics, both the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Lunar Probe benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. This material enhances the sound profile of the switches, creating a clear and resonant tone that is ideal for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Avocado's nylon material offers a different typing experience compared to the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing. While both materials absorb sound and produce a duller sound profile, the Avocado may offer a slightly deeper typing feel due to the specific characteristics of nylon.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Lunar Probe may come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings that produce a sharp and crisp sound, the Avocado's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly different feel compared to the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, users looking for a deeper and fuller sound profile may prefer the Avocado, while those seeking a rounder sound quality may opt for the Lunar Probe.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch have notable differences. The Avocado has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 50 grams, making it the heavier option. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that while the initial pressure needed to register a keystroke is the same for both switches, the Avocado requires more force to fully press down. In terms of preference, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Avocado for its heavier bottom out force, while those looking for a lighter touch may prefer the Lunar Probe. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch's travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Avocado would provide a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking quick reactions. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe offers a bit more depth in key press feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, catering to users who appreciate a more compact and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 Bsun Avocado and Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer contrasting experiences. The Avocado switch provides a mild, neutral sound signature that enhances the typing experience without being obtrusive. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch offers a subtle sound signature that complements its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. Both switches offer unique auditory feedback that can be further influenced by the overall setup of the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Avocado switch is known for its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. It offers a medium level of tactility that provides a satisfying amount of feedback without being overwhelming. In contrast, the Lunar Probe switch boasts Gateron's dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. Its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation provides a different typing experience that focuses on the fluidity of the keystrokes. Both switches offer distinct tactile sensations that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Avocado switch provides a refreshing tactile experience with a pronounced feedback and neutral sound signature, while the Lunar Probe switch focuses on smooth, pre-lubed linear keypresses with a subtle sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience suited to different preferences. Ultimately, whether choosing the Avocado or Lunar Probe switch, users can expect consistent and quality performance from both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it all boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience characterized by a pronounced but not overwhelming bump, the Avocado switch may be the way to go. The Avocado's mild, neutral sound signature and accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel make it a great choice for those seeking a satisfying, immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation that guarantees stable keypresses, the Lunar Probe switch might be more to your liking. With its subtle sound signature and unique dual rail mechanism, the Lunar Probe switch offers a different but equally enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to what typing experience you prefer and what feels most comfortable to you.
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