HMX Lucky vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and Gateron Lunar Probe stand out as compelling options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Lucky switch is celebrated for its lightweight feel and softer, glittery nylon housing, delivering a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience that appeals to those who prioritize comfort during extended use. Conversely, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stability and consistency in keypresses, providing an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed sensation complemented by a subtle sound profile. While the Lucky is ideal for users seeking a soft and cushioned touch, the Lunar Probe shines for those who crave meticulous precision and a refined auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Lunar Probe, it is important to note their differing top housing materials. The Lucky features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's softer nature, which enables it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Lunar Probe is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer composition of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant auditory experience, making it an ideal choice for users who seek clarity in their keystrokes. Aesthetic considerations also come into play, as the translucence of polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting effects, setting it apart visually from the opaque nature of nylon.
Despite these differences in the top housing materials, both switches share a nylon bottom housing. This commonality brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile, regardless of the top housing’s characteristics. Since both have nylon bottoms, they will exhibit similar tactile feedback and sound when bottoming out. Users can expect a consistent experience in terms of sound dampening and feel when keys are pressed down, as nylon’s softer plastic serves to absorb vibration and reduce noise. Thus, while the sound and aesthetics of the top housing will differ significantly, the bottom housing remains a cohesive element that influences both models similarly.
Ultimately, the juxtaposition of materials in both the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Lunar Probe highlights how the interaction between top and bottom housings can shape the overall feel and sound of a switch. The nylon bottom housing in both cases ensures that no matter the top material, there will be a consistent depth to the sound and tactile experience during keystrokes. With such a foundation, enthusiasts can appreciate the distinct experiences provided by each switch while still recognizing their common ground, reflecting how the blend of materials can lead to both unique and shared auditory outcomes.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, we can observe distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch that can accommodate extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Lunar Probe requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Therefore, while both switches can be classified as light, the Lucky switch overall is lighter than the Lunar Probe, offering less resistance during use. This contrast in force preferences illustrates the variety of experiences available in mechanical switches, catering to different user needs.
Travel distance
The HMX Lucky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the Lunar Probe may offer a quicker actuation due to its reduced distance. Conversely, the Lucky switch, with its longer travel distance, provides a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users might prefer for a deeper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference: those favoring rapid response times may lean towards the Lunar Probe, while those desiring a more substantial depth in keystrokes might opt for the Lucky.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch is characterized by a softer, less pronounced acoustic profile, which contributes to a quieter typing experience. This can be particularly appealing for users who prefer a more subdued environment, as it allows for a more private experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch also offers a subtle sound signature but is noted for its incredibly smooth, pre-lubed action, which may contribute to a satisfying click-like response without being overly loud. Ultimately, both switches will maintain a relatively low sound level, but the specific acoustic qualities may vary depending on the accompanying keyboard and keycap choices.
When evaluating their feel, the HMX Lucky switch stands out for its lightweight design, delivering a neutral and deeply satisfying typing sensation. This switch is designed to provide a smooth experience with minimal resistance, making it appealing for long typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch boasts Gateron’s innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable and consistent keypresses. This results in a smooth linear feel that many users find delightful. While the Lucky might focus on a more general sense of satisfaction, the Lunar Probe's unique engineering emphasizes stability, catering to those who may seek precision in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches offer appealing subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lucky switch provides a softer sound and a lightweight feel, ideal for those desiring a neutral typing experience. Meanwhile, the Lunar Probe switch combines a subtle sound signature with a smooth, stable action that enhances typing precision. If you're looking for a typing experience that emphasizes either quietness or smoothness, both switches can provide satisfying results, though they shine in slightly different areas of the typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and intended usage. If you appreciate a lighter switch that provides a neutral yet satisfying typing experience, the Lucky may be the right choice for you. Its soft, glittery nylon housing contributes to an enjoyable tactile sensation, making it ideal for those who engage in casual typing or gaming sessions where rapid key presses are essential. Conversely, if you prefer a more stable and consistent performance with a slightly heavier bottoming-out force, the Gateron Lunar Probe is likely to suit your needs better. Thanks to its unique dual rail mechanism, it ensures a smooth, pre-lubed action that can enhance both gaming and intensive typing scenarios, especially if you value a subtle sound signature that doesn't distract from your focus. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the typing experience you desire, so consider whether you prioritize softness and satisfaction with the Lucky or smoothness and stability with the Lunar Probe when making your selection.
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