Gateron Ink Red vs. Gateron Lunar Probe

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', '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 in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

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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

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.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more