HMX Gravel vs. Gateron Lunar Probe

Overview

When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, mechanical keyboard switches vary greatly in feel and performance, and two notable contenders in the realm of linear switches are the HMX Gravel and Gateron Lunar Probe. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, offering a medium-light actuation force that makes each keystroke both responsive and effortless. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a smooth, light touch in their typing, particularly for long sessions of writing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe stands out with its innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stability and consistency in every keypress. Coupled with its pre-lubed linear sensation and a subtle sound signature, these switches provide a unique tactile experience that some users might prefer for both typing and gaming. Both switches offer their own distinct advantages, catering to different preferences in 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

HMX Gravel Linear

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Gravel and Gateron Lunar Probe switches both feature identical housing materials in their designs, utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when each key is actuated. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, making these switches visually striking while providing a consistent auditory experience.

In terms of the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon, a classic material that contributes to a different sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. As a softer plastic, nylon’s inherent properties provide a rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top. This combination of two distinct materials is crucial; while the polycarbonate enhances the clarity and brightness of sound on key release, the nylon enriches the overall sound depth during the actuation phase.

Because both the HMX Gravel and Gateron Lunar Probe use the same materials for their housings, users can anticipate similar outcomes in terms of typing experience and sound profile. The well-balanced synergy created by the polycarbonate and nylon combination allows for an effective distribution of auditory qualities between the two elements of the switch. Ultimately, when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the pronounced, crisp sound from the polycarbonate top, while still enjoying the warm, rounded tones from the nylon bottom, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable typing experience across both models.

Weight

The HMX Gravel and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches exhibit identical values in both actuation force and bottom out force, with each switch requiring 45 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. This similarity means that users will experience comparable keystrokes and feedback while typing or gaming with either switch. Both of these switches are classified as light, making them suitable for users who prefer less resistance for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. Given their equivalent characteristics, those seeking a lighter touch and a comfortable typing experience can confidently choose between the two without worry about differences in actuation feel or performance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, we find that they differ slightly, with the Gravel measuring 3.5 mm and the Lunar Probe at 3.6 mm. This makes the Gravel the shorter option, providing a slightly quicker response, which can be advantageous for gamers preferring rapid key presses. Conversely, the Lunar Probe's travel distance, albeit only marginally longer, can offer a more pronounced tactile experience for users who appreciate a bit more depth when typing. While both switches have dimensions that fall within the modern trend towards shorter travel distances, the Gravel may appeal more to those who prioritize responsiveness, whereas the Lunar Probe could be favored by users seeking a fuller feel in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to the sound profile, the HMX Gravel switch is characterized by a subtle and gentle acoustic signature, delivering a pleasant and unobtrusive sound that is well-suited for quiet environments. The Gateron Lunar Probe switch, on the other hand, offers a similarly understated noise level, thanks in part to its dual rail mechanism which helps to dampen sound. Both switches are designed with a focus on a less intrusive auditory experience, meaning that regardless of your choice between them, you can expect a smooth and quiet typing environment, though final sound output will also be influenced by your keyboard structure and keycap materials.

In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch excels in providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience that can be attributed to its medium-light actuation force, resulting in a responsive and effortless interaction. Users often appreciate the ideal balance of comfort and feedback, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. The Gateron Lunar Probe switch, with its pre-lubed linear sensation, also prioritizes a smooth and luxurious feel. The inclusion of the dual rail mechanism further enhances stability and consistency, ensuring that keypresses are reliable and fatigue-free. Ultimately, both switches deliver a premium typing feel that can be enjoyed by typists and gamers alike.

In summary, both the HMX Gravel and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches stand out for their exceptional smoothness and refined feel, making them excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the sound profiles are aligned in being discreet, they each offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you opt for the Gravel's lighter actuation or the Lunar Probe's stable keypresses, you can expect satisfaction in the typing experience with either choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, your specific typing preferences and use cases will play a crucial role. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel along with a lightweight actuation, the Gravel switch would be a great fit for you. Its responsive nature makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or fast-paced gaming environments where fluidity is key. On the other hand, if you value stability and consistency in every keypress, along with a slightly more muted sound profile, the Lunar Probe switch should be your go-to choice. Its dual rail mechanism offers reliability, making it suitable for both casual typing and competitive gaming while delivering an incredibly smooth experience thanks to its pre-lubed design. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you lean towards a superior tactile experience with the Gravel or a more stable and consistent typing feel with the Lunar Probe.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more