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Gazzew LT vs. Gateron Lunar Probe

An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Lunar Probe. The Gazzew LT, a linear switch, is renowned for its enticing lilac hue and the deep, resonant thockiness it offers with every keystroke. The seamless glide of the LTs adds to the overall typing experience, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe, also a linear switch, stands out for its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. The pre-lubed linear sensation of the Lunar Probe switches provides an incredibly smooth typing experience, along with a subtle sound signature. When deciding between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a switch. 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

N/A

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

65g

Bottom-out force

50g

Pre-travel

N/A

Pre-travel

1.80 mm

Total travel

3.20 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 Gazzew blend

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel Korean spring

Spring

Double-staged spring

Housing materials

The Gazzew LT and Gateron Lunar Probe both feature unique housing materials that impact the sound profile of the switches. The LT's Gazzew blend top housing is soft and delivers a rich and deep sound, while the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Lunar Probe's housing also makes it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Gazzew LT's proprietary plastic blend provides a softer and more mellow sound profile, suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.

In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gazzew LT and Gateron Lunar Probe also differ. The LT's Gazzew blend bottom housing, like its top housing, delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material used in each switch.

While the Gazzew LT and Gateron Lunar Probe have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both aim to provide users with a unique sound profile. The Gazzew LT's blend top and bottom housing materials work together to deliver a rich and mellow sound, while the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing materials create a sharper and fuller sound. Despite the differences in materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience through the careful selection of housing materials that impact the sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, whether you prefer a softer, deeper sound or a sharper, crisper sound will determine which switch is the right choice for you.

Weight

The Gazzew LT linear switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. While the actuation force of the LT switch is listed as None grams, the Lunar Probe switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Gateron Lunar Probe switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Gazzew LT switch. In terms of weight, the Lunar Probe is lighter overall, making it a preferred choice for those who like a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gazzew LT has a shorter travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The LT's 3.2 mm travel distance may provide a quicker response time for gamers who prefer faster keystrokes. Meanwhile, the Lunar Probe's longer 3.6 mm travel distance may offer a more substantial depth for those who enjoy a more tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - with the Gazzew LT offering a shorter distance and the Gateron Lunar Probe providing a longer one.

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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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 Gazzew LT linear switches are best known for their bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics that offer a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches provide a subtle sound signature without specific descriptors, hinting at a quieter and more understated typing experience. Both switches can offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the LT switches delivering a more pronounced and resonant sound compared to the Lunar Probe switches. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, specific descriptions for the Gazzew LT and Gateron Lunar Probe switches are not provided. However, based on their reputation and design, it can be inferred that the LT switches offer a smooth glide with every keystroke, likely providing a buttery and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switches are equipped with Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, suggesting a precise and reliable tactile feedback for typists. While the exact tactile feel of each switch may vary, both the LT and Lunar Probe switches are designed to deliver a linear typing experience with their unique features.

In conclusion, the Gazzew LT linear switches excel in providing a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile along with a seamless typing experience characterized by a smooth glide. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches prioritize stability and consistency in keypresses, offering a pre-lubed linear sensation with a more subtle sound signature. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches can deliver a satisfying performance tailored to individual preferences. Whether you opt for the LT or Lunar Probe switches, you can expect a quality linear switch option that meets your needs and enhances your typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, bassy, thocky sound when typing, the Gazzew LT switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, then the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and priorities for sound and feel when using a mechanical keyboard.

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