Gateron Ink Red vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Lunar Probe mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ink Red is well-known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. It provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe stands out with Gateron's dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. These switches offer an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. While the Ink Red is categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Lunar Probe's category remains unspecified. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Lunar Probe are quite different in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its thin, high-pitched, and clacky sound. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, crisper, and more resonant sound profile. While both materials offer unique sonic characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe is likely to produce a more vibrant sound due to its translucency and stiffness.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend is consistent with its top housing, providing a pointed and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This stark difference in bottom housing material between the two switches contributes to the overall sound experience when typing and bottoming out keys.
Overall, while both switches offer unique sound profiles thanks to their different housing materials, the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Lunar Probe cater to slightly different preferences. The INK blend material in the Ink Red delivers a thinner and higher-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon materials in the Lunar Probe offer sharper and fuller sound profiles. Ultimately, both switches provide satisfying typing experiences, but the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them both light to the touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Red is heavier at 60 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 50 grams. This means that the Ink Red switch will provide a more substantial typing experience, requiring a bit more force to fully press down the key. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch while typing for extended periods. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable actuation force, but the Ink Red provides a slightly heavier bottom out force for those who prefer a more solid typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Lunar Probe has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Red. A shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so choosing between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that suits a wide range of users. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy characteristic that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a subtle sound signature, providing a quiet typing experience thanks to its dual rail mechanism.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, ensuring smooth keypresses and minimal resistance when typing. It also falls into the category of mild switches, providing a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, there is limited information available regarding the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, but based on its smooth linear sensation and stable keypresses, it can be inferred that it provides a comfortable and consistent typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Red and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience. While the Ink Red offers a unique chirpy sound profile and a silky, polished feel, the Lunar Probe ensures stable keypresses and a subtle sound signature. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can deliver a pleasant typing experience, with both being reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your typing style and preference for actuation force. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Lunar Probe may be the better choice for you. Its smooth and stable dual rail mechanism ensures consistent keypresses, making it a great option for those seeking comfort in their typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and a crispy sound profile, the Ink Red may be more suitable for you. Its satisfyingly smooth typing experience and clacky sound make it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile response. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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