TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe are both linear switches that offer a smooth typing experience. The Gold Red Pro is known for its versatility and ease of use, making it a great option for a wide range of users and environments. Its neutral sound signature adds to its adaptability, making it suitable for gaming, office work, or casual typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism, providing stable and consistent keypresses. Additionally, the pre-lubed linear sensation of the Lunar Probe switch ensures a smooth typing experience with a subtle sound profile. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. However, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Lunar Probe also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, showcasing similar sound characteristics to the Gold Red Pro.
The top housing material of both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe, polycarbonate, offers similar qualities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate results in a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those who enjoy a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, while both switches have nylon bottom housings, they differ in the type of sound produced. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper sound, enhancing the overall typing experience, while the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller tone.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the choice between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that provide a clear and resonant sound, perfect for those seeking a sharper typing experience. However, the nylon bottom housings of each switch offer distinct differences in sound characteristics, with the Gold Red Pro producing a deeper sound and the Lunar Probe creating a rounder tone. Whether you prefer a sharper or fuller sound profile, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Red Pro is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lunar Probe is heavier at 50 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force between the two switches may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Gold Red Pro, which could be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Lunar Probe may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. The Gold Red Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when typing or gaming. However, the Lunar Probe's shorter travel distance may feel more immediate and responsive. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for keyboard feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that is neutral, making it suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch provides a subtle sound signature due to its pre-lubed linear sensation. Depending on the rest of the keyboard setup, both switches can deliver a pleasant typing experience with different auditory characteristics.
Moving on to the feel, the Gold Red Pro switch boasts a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish, gentle resistance, and light typing feel. This contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable typing session with minimal resistance. Similarly, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers incredibly smooth keypresses due to its dual rail mechanism, enhancing the overall typing feel with a subtle touch. Both switches prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience for the user.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red Pro switch provides a versatile and adaptive typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers smooth keypresses and a subtle sound signature. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, either switch can deliver a satisfying and comfortable typing session for users, showcasing the diversity and quality of options available in the mechanical keyboard switch realm.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and a neutral sound signature, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a stable bottom out force of 50 grams and a pre-lubed linear sensation, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your typing style and environment when making your decision.
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