Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Dareu Master both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe is renowned for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, providing a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is praised for its all-POM linear design that strikes a medium weight, offering users a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness during operation. While the Lunar Probe is lauded for its stability and smoothness, the Master stands out for its clacky sound and medium weight. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Dareu Master both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. While the Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the Dareu Master opts for a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both materials are known for creating pleasing sound profiles that enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the Lunar Probe is constructed with a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Dareu Master also features a POM bottom housing, contributing to its uniquely deep and muted sound profile. Both materials provide a different typing experience, with nylon offering a fuller sound and POM creating a more subdued tone.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Dareu Master impacts the sound profile of each switch. Whether it's the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe creating a sharp and resonant sound or the POM top housing of the Dareu Master producing a deep and muted tone, each material brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience. While the switches may differ in their housing materials, they both aim to provide users with an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience through the use of high-quality materials.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe requires 50 grams, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Lunar Probe is lighter in terms of the force needed to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lunar Probe may be the better option. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Master switch may provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and the desired force required for each keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Lunar Probe is slightly longer than the Master, but the difference of 0.2 mm may not be significant to the average user. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the feel of the key press - those who prefer a more abrupt response may lean towards the Lunar Probe, while those who prefer a deeper press may prefer the Master. Both switches offer a modern travel distance that caters to the demands of today's users.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers a subtle and smooth typing experience, with a faint sound signature that won't be too distracting. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch is known for its classic clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. Depending on your preference, you can choose between a quieter typing experience with the Lunar Probe or a more pronounced sound with the Master switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch provides an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, striking a middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Master switch delivers a refined typing experience that is comfortable for long typing sessions.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth keypresses, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced sound with a medium weight switch that offers a polished feel, the Dareu Master switch would be a great option. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch with a stable and consistent keypress, as well as a smooth linear feel with a subtle sound signature, the Gateron Lunar Probe may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-weight switch that provides a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Dareu Master switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch, whether it be sound, feel, or overall typing experience.
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