KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Lunar Probe both offer unique features and benefits. The Cream Yellow is well-known for its distinctive clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. It also boasts a bouncy typing feel due to its lengthened spring, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. It offers an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature, appealing to users who prioritize a smooth typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Lunar Probe, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing materials indicate that users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics from both switches.
However, a key point of distinction lies in the bottom housing material used in the Cream Yellow and Lunar Probe switches. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar typing experience with a more resonant sound. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches highlights a shared commitment to enhancing the overall typing experience through the choice of materials.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Cream Yellow and Lunar Probe switches showcases how each material contributes uniquely to the sound profile and feel of typing on the switches. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a well-rounded typing experience, with each material impacting sound and feel in distinct ways. Ultimately, users can expect a blend of clarity and depth in sound when using either the KTT Cream Yellow or Gateron Lunar Probe switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch differ in their weights. The Cream Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Lunar Probe has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams. The Cream Yellow provides a medium level of resistance, offering a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Lunar Probe offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where less force is preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience, with the Cream Yellow being the heavier option and the Lunar Probe being the lighter option.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, particularly gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, as both fall within a similar range. However, for those who are more sensitive to variations in travel distance, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Lunar Probe may provide a slightly deeper feel compared to the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and whether a slightly shorter or longer travel distance is preferred for an optimal typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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
Overall, the Cream Yellow switch offers a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel due to its unique design features such as the shortened bottom-out distance and lengthened spring. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch provides a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature, thanks to its dual rail mechanism for stable keypresses. While the sound and feel of the two switches differ, both offer a high-quality typing experience that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup. If you prefer a more tactile and bouncy feel with a clacky sound, the Cream Yellow switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you value smoothness and consistency in your keypresses with a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, pre-lubed linear sensation with stable and consistent keypresses, then the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and whether you prioritize sound or feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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