Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Lunar Probe stand out as compelling options for anyone seeking a linear typing experience but with distinct characteristics. The Lightning Silver V3 is renowned for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a lively auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience, while its silky feel offers a seamless interaction with each keypress. Additionally, its innovative light diffuser elevates RGB illumination, making it a visually appealing choice for gamers and enthusiasts alike. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe employs a unique dual rail mechanism that ensures stability and consistency during keypresses, resulting in an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. While it may lack the pronounced auditory feedback of the Lightning Silver V3, it makes up for this with a subtle sound profile that some users may prefer for quieter environments. Both switches cater to different preferences, whether you're drawn to the lively sound and design of the Lightning Silver V3 or the understated elegance and reliability of the Lunar Probe. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches display both similarities and differences that impact their sound profiles and overall typing experience. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's rigidity. This shared characteristic enhances the resonance and clarity of the audio feedback when keys are pressed and released. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is a noteworthy aspect for users who prioritize aesthetics, particularly those who employ RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination and visual appeal.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these switches diverge significantly in material composition. The Lightning Silver V3 incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing similar to its top, leading to a consistent sound profile that focuses on clarity and sharpness for both the upstroke and downstroke of the key press. The uniformity in materials may yield a more cohesive typing feel and auditory experience. Conversely, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a nylon bottom housing, known for its softer and more absorbent qualities. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that contrasts noticeably with the polycarbonate top. Consequently, the sound produced when bottoming out is more muted and rounded, providing a different typing sensation, particularly during the actuation and release of the key.
Ultimately, the differing characteristics of the top and bottom housings between these two switches create a contrast in typing experiences. The Lightning Silver V3 delivers a more uniform sharpness due to its all-polycarbonate construction, while the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing introduces a layer of depth and warmth to the sound profile. This means that users can expect a different overall feel and response when using either switch, despite the shared advantages of polycarbonate in the top housing. For those who appreciate clarity and vibrancy, the Lightning Silver V3 may be ideal, whereas typists who lean towards a fuller and softer auditory experience might prefer the Lunar Probe, showcasing how housing material choices significantly influence the action and sound of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it's evident that the two switches cater to different preferences in typing feel. The Lightning Silver V3 has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium resistance that some users may appreciate for a more substantial tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer less strain during extended typing sessions. Consequently, users who favor a lighter switch will find the Lunar Probe more comfortable for long-term use, while those enjoying a firmer push may gravitate towards the Lightning Silver V3. Overall, the Gateron Lunar Probe is the lighter option, whereas the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 is heavier, providing distinct feedback according to the user's typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches, there is a notable difference. The Lightning Silver V3 has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Lunar Probe features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Lightning Silver V3 the shorter option, which could appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and more responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe, with its longer travel distance, may be preferable for users who appreciate a more pronounced key press and deeper feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The sound profile of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched qualities, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that some users find enjoyable and engaging. This type of sound creates an energizing typing atmosphere, especially appealing for those who appreciate a more vibrant auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a more subdued sound signature that is subtle and gentle, which makes for a quieter typing experience. This difference in sound can significantly affect the keyboard user's environment and preferences, as those who enjoy a pronounced auditory response may lean toward the Lightning Silver V3, while users favoring a softer sound might prefer the Lunar Probe.
In terms of feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is noted for its silky typing experience, which enhances the overall smoothness by minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This enables a seamless transition between keystrokes, leading to an enjoyable typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe is recognized for its innovative dual rail mechanism, which offers stability and consistency but lacks a detailed tactile description. Therefore, it would likely provide a pleasant typing sensation, though the exact nuances of the feel remain unspecified.
In summary, when considering the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches, notable differences emerge in both sound and feel. The Lightning Silver V3 excels in offering a sharp and lively sound with a silky feel, making it ideal for those seeking an engaging auditory experience alongside smooth keystrokes. Conversely, the Lunar Probe caters to users who prefer a more understated sound and stable key response, although its tactile characteristics are less defined. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on personal preference regarding sound and typing experience, as both offer unique qualities suited to different types of users.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing, the Lightning Silver V3 is an excellent choice with its clacky and high-pitched sound signature. Its silky feel enhances the typing experience, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a tactile yet smooth keyboard interaction, especially in a vibrant, RGB-lit setup due to its light diffuser. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a more subdued sound signature, the Gateron Lunar Probe might be more suitable for you. With its dual rail mechanism, it delivers stable, consistent keypresses along with a smooth and pre-lubed sensation, ideal for quieter environments or long typing sessions where you value comfort and softness over auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize sound and tactility or prefer a lighter touch and smooth silent operation.
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