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Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Gateron Lunar Probe

An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Lunar Probe, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Honey Bean switches are praised for their light and linear action, making them ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switches are highlighted for their stable and consistent keypresses, thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism. While the Honey Bean offers a feathery and muted typing experience, the Lunar Probe provides a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. 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

42g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

N/A

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

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

Ly

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

POM

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

POM

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 Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer distinct sound profiles due to their different properties. The POM top housing of the Honey Bean produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast is further emphasized by the fact that polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the softer POM material. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the sound experience.

In terms of the bottom housing, the POM material of the Honey Bean continues to offer a deep and unique sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe elicits a fuller and deeper sound. Nylon's ability to absorb more sound due to its softer nature results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM material. This difference in sound quality between the two bottom housings adds to the overall typing experience of each switch and can influence user preference based on sound preferences.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer distinct qualities that impact sound profiles, the overall typing experience is a combination of these factors. Users can expect a unique sound profile based on the housing materials used in each switch. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall sound experience of each switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that the Honey Bean is lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Lunar Probe at 50 grams is heavier than the unknown bottom out force of the Honey Bean. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Honey Bean may be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation force, but the Lunar Probe offers a heavier bottom out force for those who desire a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe, while those wanting a more substantial keypress may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Honey Bean. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.

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 Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch offers a muted typing experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that is ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, but it is likely to produce a subtle sound due to its smooth linear action. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard casing, keycaps, and typing technique.

Turning to the feel of the switches, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, providing a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, but given its smooth and pre-lubed linear action, it is likely to offer a similar lightweight and comfortable typing experience as the Honey Bean switch. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience by offering consistent and low-impact keypresses.

In conclusion, both the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Honey Bean switch excels in providing a muted typing experience with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Lunar Probe switch highlights stability and smooth linear action. Depending on whether you prioritize noise reduction, typing effortlessness, or keypress consistency, you can choose between these two switches to achieve a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, with either switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of typing comfort and performance.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a silent typing experience in a shared environment, the Honey Bean's light and linear action will be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize stability and consistency in your keypresses along with a smooth linear sensation, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch with its dual rail mechanism is the way to go. Whether you opt for the muted and easy-to-press Honey Bean or the stable and smooth Lunar Probe, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.

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