Gateron Lunar Probe vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HMX Macchiato stand out as two exceptional linear options, each appealing to different types of users. The Lunar Probe is celebrated for its innovative dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses while offering an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed feel enhanced by a subtle sound signature that blends seamlessly into any typing environment. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is engineered for enthusiasts who seek a silky smooth typing experience accompanied by a bright and lively sound profile—ideal for those who appreciate audible feedback while maintaining a linear response. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct characteristics: the Lunar Probe leans towards a quieter and more stable performance, while the Macchiato delivers an engaging auditory dimension. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on which switch suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HMX Macchiato present a compelling contrast in their acoustic characteristics and aesthetic qualities. The Lunar Probe's top housing is constructed from polycarbonate, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate’s rigidity, allowing it to resonate more clearly. In contrast, the Macchiato features a nylon top housing, a classic in the realm of switch housings, that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile owing to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound. Consequently, when it comes to the auditory experience, the Lunar Probe is likely to provide a more crisp sound, while the Macchiato leans towards a rounder and more muted acoustic delivery.
The bottom housing of both switches, however, presents an interesting point of convergence, as both the Lunar Probe and the Macchiato utilize nylon. This choice results in a similar sound experience at the base of their respective switches, as nylon tends to produce a robust and richer auditory feedback due to its sound-absorbing properties. In this case, both switches will deliver a consistent sound profile during key presses grounded in the softness of the nylon material. Therefore, regardless of the differences in their top housings, the shared nylon material in the bottom housing ensures that the impact felt during the bottoming out of keys is noticeably consistent across both models.
Overall, while the top housings of the Lunar Probe and the Macchiato diverge significantly in their materials and the aural experiences they provide, the nylon bottom housing serves as a common ground that ties their acoustic profiles together. The interplay between the distinct contributions of the polycarbonate and nylon materials creates a multi-faceted typing experience in the Lunar Probe, characterized by clarity on release, and a harmonious balance in the Macchiato that will be fuller, thanks to both of their nylon bottom housings. Ultimately, this combination of materials allows both switches to appeal to different preferences while maintaining a core auditory consistency in their performance.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe and HMX Macchiato linear switches both feature light actuation forces, with the Lunar Probe requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke and the Macchiato needing only 42 grams. This difference in actuation force means that the Macchiato is slightly lighter, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that while the actuation requires a different amount of force, the tactile feedback when pressed all the way down is consistent between the two. For users who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing or gaming experiences, the Macchiato may be the better option. However, those who enjoy a more substantial feel may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation of the Lunar Probe. Overall, both switches offer unique benefits depending on user preference, with the Macchiato being the lighter of the two.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Lunar Probe, with its shorter travel, may appeal more to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the Macchiato’s 4 mm distance offers a more traditional and substantial feel, which could be preferable for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of pressing a key down further. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Luner Probe would be the better choice, whereas the Macchiato is better suited for users who favor a deeper keystroke experience. Ultimately, while both switches serve distinct preferences, the Lunar Probe stands out as the shorter option, and the Macchiato is the 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 HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato for $2.99.
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 examining the sound qualities of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it tends to produce a subtle sound signature, which contributes to a quieter typing experience. This can make it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more muted auditory feedback when typing, ensuring that it remains unobtrusive in shared environments. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato linear switch features a bright sound profile, which can provide a more pronounced acoustic feedback with each keypress. This can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy a more lively and dynamic sound, making it an engaging option for personal use or in settings where sound is appreciated.
In terms of feel, the Lunar Probe switch is celebrated for its incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation. This feature ensures that users experience a seamless keystroke without any resistance or bump, allowing for effortless typing and gaming. The smoothness adds to the overall typing pleasure, making it a favorite for those who prioritize fluidity. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato switch is also designed for a silky smooth typing experience, which places it in a similar category when it comes to user comfort and satisfaction. Both switches provide a consistent keypress feel, making them great choices for anyone looking to enhance their typing ergonomics.
In conclusion, the Gateron Lunar Probe and HMX Macchiato linear switches cater to different preferences with regard to sound and tactile feel. While the Lunar Probe offers a more subdued auditory feedback and an exquisitely smooth feel, the Macchiato presents a brighter sound profile along with a similarly smooth experience. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on whether one prioritizes a quieter typing experience or one that is more sonically engaging, but fundamentally, both switches promise a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HMX Macchiato linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you value a smooth, stable keypress experience and prefer a subtle sound profile that won't distract you or your environment, the Gateron Lunar Probe is an excellent choice. Its dual rail mechanism ensures that each keystroke feels consistent, making it perfect for scenarios like extensive coding or gaming where precision is key. On the other hand, if you desire a typing experience that combines silky smoothness with a brighter sound profile, the HMX Macchiato will likely appeal to you. Its design caters to users who appreciate auditory feedback without overwhelming noise, making it suitable for casual typing or whenever you want to make your keystrokes a little more enjoyable. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a whisper-quiet work atmosphere or a more vibrant auditory experience while typing.
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