KTT Kang White vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Lunar Probe are two options that stand out among linear switches. The Kang White is revered for its exquisite poppy linear feel and dazzling typing sound, thanks to its self-lubricating material that provides an unparalleled smoothness while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe impresses with its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Kang White is known for its low-pitched and neutral characteristics, while the Lunar Probe's categorization is not specified. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Lunar Probe lies in their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both switches opt for nylon, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in top and bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience of both switches is likely to be quite similar due to their shared use of polycarbonate and nylon.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of polycarbonate used in both the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Lunar Probe adds a modern and sleek look to the switches. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a unique sound profile that is sharper and crisper compared to switches with different housing materials. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing of both switches adds a touch of classicism, as nylon is a tried and true material for switch housings known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This combination of modernity and tradition in the housing materials contributes to the overall appeal of both the KTT Kang White and Gateron Lunar Probe.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Kang White and Gateron Lunar Probe differ, the split qualities of each material in these switches contribute to a well-rounded typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The unique qualities of each housing material work together to create a balanced typing experience that combines the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate with the deep and full sound of nylon. Overall, despite the differences in housing materials, both the KTT Kang White and Gateron Lunar Probe are likely to offer a satisfying typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, we can see that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Kang White has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it heavier, while the Lunar Probe has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. The Kang White provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe's lighter bottom out force may be more preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, the Kang White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lunar Probe has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance, offering a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Lunar Probe. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Kang White being on the longer side and the Lunar Probe being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Kang White offering a more traditional feel and the Lunar Probe providing a slightly shorter and potentially faster response time for those who prefer that.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that suits various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch boasts a subtle sound signature due to its pre-lubed linear sensation, offering a smooth typing experience without any distracting noise. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant typing sound, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users.
Moving on to feel, both switches have a reputation for offering smooth and consistent keypresses. The Kang White switch, known for its self-lubricating material, provides unparalleled smoothness that enhances the overall typing feel. Similarly, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch features Gateron's dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. With both switches prioritizing smoothness and consistency in their design, users can expect a comfortable typing feel regardless of their choice.
In conclusion, both the KTT Kang White and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches excel in providing a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the Kang White switch offers a low-pitched sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Lunar Probe switch provides a subtle sound signature and stable keypresses. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, with slight variations in sound and feel to cater to individual preferences. Whether you choose the Kang White or Lunar Probe, you can achieve similar results in terms of a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Kang White linear switch or the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is important to take into account the differences between these two options. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with an exquisite typing experience, then the Kang White may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a dual rail mechanism for stable keypresses, and a smoother, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature, then the Lunar Probe switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and keypress stability.
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