Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Lunar Probe. The Outemu Crystal is a linear switch known for its unique linear typing experience that combines an elastic feel with a medium-light weight. Typing on these switches offers a neutral sound profile, making them ideal for those looking for a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. These switches provide an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature, making them a great choice for typists looking for a smooth and reliable 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Lunar Probe, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their 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 an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Crystal also uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing, the Lunar Probe utilizes nylon instead. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. With the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing and top housing, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, impacting the sound when a key is pressed down. Meanwhile, the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper sound when bottoming out a key. The split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience where the qualities of each material come into play depending on the direction of keypress.
While both the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature polycarbonate in their top housing, the distinction lies in their choice of bottom housing material. This results in a contrast in sound profiles, with the Crystal offering a sharper sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, and the Lunar Probe delivering a deeper sound thanks to the absorbent nature of nylon. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel, as well as considerations for aesthetics and compatibility with RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is clear that they both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Crystal has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 50 grams. This means that the Crystal switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Lunar Probe would be the better option, as it has a lighter bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Crystal switch falls into the medium-light category, while the Lunar Probe is considered light. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Lunar Probe has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Crystal. A 0.4 mm difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. The Crystal offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who like a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe provides a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who require fast and precise keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, giving typists a distinct auditory experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is known for its subtle sound signature, providing a quieter typing experience overall. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the more lively sound of the Crystal switch or the quieter operation of the Lunar Probe switch.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as having a polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a sleek feel while typing, enhancing the overall user experience. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is unknown, but given the reputation of Gateron switches for their smooth operation, it can be assumed that the Lunar Probe switch would offer a similar refined typing feel.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and polished feel, providing users with a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers stable keypresses and a pre-lubed smooth linear sensation, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a medium-light actuation force and a unique linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Crystal may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize stable and consistent keypresses with an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation and a subtle sound signature, then the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your individual preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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