Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Lunar Probe are two popular options to consider. The Ginger Milk switch is praised for its soft and pastel appearance, mirroring the silky smooth and approachable typing experience it offers. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch stands out for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, as well as its incredibly smooth linear sensation. While the Ginger Milk is described as 'Neutral' and 'Buttery', the Lunar Probe's categorization remains unspecified. Both switches have their own unique features and advantages, making them appealing choices for different preferences. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing, as both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it especially suitable for gamers or enthusiasts looking to customize their setup with colorful lighting effects. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice among keyboard users who prioritize sound quality.
On the other hand, the differences in the bottom housing materials of the Ginger Milk and Lunar Probe switches offer contrasting typing experiences. The Ginger Milk's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who appreciate a quieter and more subdued sound. In comparison, the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience, allowing for a deeper and fuller sound profile that complements the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
While both switches share similarities in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing, the variation in their bottom housing materials allows for unique typing experiences for users. Whether you prefer the sharper sound profile of the Ginger Milk with its nylon bottom housing or the deeper sound profile of the Lunar Probe with its nylon bottom housing, the quality of the overall typing experience will be influenced by the combination of these housing materials. Ultimately, the differences in the sound and feel of each switch make them suitable for different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch's 45 grams, making the Ginger Milk slightly heavier. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Ginger Milk at 63.5 grams is also higher than the Lunar Probe's 50 grams, indicating a firmer typing experience. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Ginger Milk due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. In contrast, the Lunar Probe offers a lighter touch with lower actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a smoother and easier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with lighter switches like the Lunar Probe being better for longer typing sessions and heavier switches like the Ginger Milk providing a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, slightly longer than the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, compared to the more traditional 4.0mm distance. Gamers might lean towards the Ginger Milk for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth and tactile feedback, while those looking for a quick response time might choose the Lunar Probe. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a soft and pastel typing experience, characterized by a silky smooth and approachable push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch features Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stable keypresses, providing an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. While the sound profile of the Ginger Milk is described as neutral, suitable for various purposes, the Lunar Probe's sound profile is not specified.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ginger Milk is often described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Lunar Probe switch.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a softer and more muted typing experience, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more stable keypress, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch could be a better fit. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps you use. Ultimately, trying out both switches for yourself to see which one suits your preferences best is recommended.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a soft and pastel typing experience with a muted, snappy sound profile, then the Ginger Milk may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value stable and consistent keypresses with an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation paired with a subtle sound signature, then the Gateron Lunar Probe may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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