TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Lunar Probe both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Pink is a linear switch with an actuation force of 37g, making it one of the lightest switches available. It provides a fast and effortless typing experience, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming, while also delivering a satisfying level of feedback with its clacky sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, along with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation and a subtle sound signature. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different user 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Lunar Probe, it is clear that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a consistent and resonant sound experience, with a visually appealing translucent housing. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of polycarbonate, creating a crisp sound profile that is distinct and clear.
In contrast, the Gold Pink features a nylon bottom housing, while the Lunar Probe also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a rounder and duller sound, adding a unique tactile feel to each keystroke. Despite the similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing, the switches may offer slightly different typing experiences due to any variations in the design and manufacturing of the housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gold Pink and Lunar Probe switches respectively create a well-balanced sound profile. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. While both switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality and design, the subtle differences in housing materials may result in varying degrees of sound depth and tactile feedback for users looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Gold Pink has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 45 grams, while the bottom out force is also lighter at 45 grams for the Gold Pink and 50 grams for the Lunar Probe. Both switches provide a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, making them ideal for users who enjoy typing for extended periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force, with the Gold Pink offering a slightly lighter touch and the Lunar Probe providing a slightly firmer feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, we can see that the Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Lunar Probe has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The Gold Pink falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, while the Lunar Probe is on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gold Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gold Pink switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback to the user. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch is described as having a subtle sound signature, enhancing the typing experience with its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the setup in which the switches will be used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switch is often described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a light and lively typing experience that is smooth, effortless, and comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the feel of the Lunar Probe switch is unknown at this time. The Gateron Lunar Probe's novel dual rail mechanism ensures stable and consistent keypresses, which can potentially offer a unique typing experience for users seeking reliability and consistency in their switches.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Gold Pink switch offers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Lunar Probe switch provides a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. Whether you prefer a buttery and polished feel or a stable and consistent keystroke, both switches have their merits and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on the individual user's needs and preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person or based on reviews from experienced users can help determine which switch would be the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a clacky sound, the Gold Pink switch with its 45g bottom out force and 37g actuation force is a great choice. However, if you value stability and consistency in your keypresses along with a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch with its 50g bottom out force is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a light and lively typing experience (Gold Pink) or a stable and smooth typing sensation (Lunar Probe). Each switch has its own distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
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