KTT Lightning vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and Gateron Lunar Probe both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lightning is renowned for its speed and precision, making it ideal for gamers looking for that competitive edge with its quick actuation. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe boasts a stable and consistent keypress experience, perfect for typists seeking a smooth and linear sensation. While the Lightning offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Lunar Probe provides a more subtle sound signature. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Lunar Probe utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. The similarities in the top housing material of both switches ensure that users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using them.
On the other hand, the KTT Lightning utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Lunar Probe also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a more muted and rounded sound when using switches with nylon bottom housings. The shared use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures that users will experience a similar typing feel and sound profile influenced by this material.
When considering the impact of housing materials on a switch's overall performance, it is crucial to acknowledge how the top and bottom housings contribute to the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as sound upon bottoming out a key, play a significant role in the tactile feedback felt while typing. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, adding to the overall auditory experience of using the switches. By understanding how each housing material affects different aspects of typing, users can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch are quite similar. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of resistance when fully pressing the key. The Lightning switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Lunar Probe switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. This slight difference may result in the Lightning switch feeling slightly easier to activate compared to the Lunar Probe switch. Overall, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Lightning switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe switch. The shorter travel distance of 3 mm on the Lightning switch may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the 3.6 mm travel distance on the Lunar Probe switch may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer deeper travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 Lightning switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is described as having a subtle sound signature, ensuring a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Lightning switch offering a more pronounced and sharp sound, while the Lunar Probe switch provides a more understated and smooth typing experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch is praised for its subtle resistance, offering a light and gentle typing feel that is suitable for prolonged use. Additionally, the polished finish of the Lightning switch ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and seamless key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing consistent and stable keypresses. While specific feel descriptors for the Lunar Probe switch are not provided, it is evident that both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning and Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a subtle and polished typing feel, while the Lunar Probe switch offers a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that newcomers to mechanical keyboards have a variety of options to choose from based on their individual preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, whether opting for the Lightning or Lunar Probe switch, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct characteristics that enhance their overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider the type of experience you are looking for. If you prioritize speed and responsive keypresses for gaming or fast typing, the Lightning switch with its slick feel and clacky sound profile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, the Lunar Probe switch with its dual rail mechanism may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard.
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