Gateron Lunar Probe vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, there are a few key differences to consider. The Lunar Probe is known for its stable and consistent keypresses thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, offering a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Meteor White provides a gentle and subdued typing experience with an easy-to-push feel and a soft pitter-patter sound profile. While both switches offer their own unique benefits, such as stability and smoothness for the Lunar Probe and softness and gentleness for the Meteor White, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
POM
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the SP-Star Meteor White, we can see that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In terms of sound characteristics, both switches would provide a similar experience when it comes to typing sounds produced by the bottom housing.
However, the top housing materials of the two switches differ, with the Lunar Probe featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, when comparing the top housing materials, the Lunar Probe would provide a sharper and more resonant sound profile, while the Meteor White would offer a deeper and rounder sound when typing on the switch.
In essence, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the SP-Star Meteor White offer contrasting sound profiles due to their choice of housing materials. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, creating a deeper and fuller sound experience, the top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, catering to users who prefer a deeper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we can see some differences between the two. The Lunar Probe has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Meteor White which is unknown, while the bottom out force for the Lunar Probe is 50 grams, lighter than the Meteor White at 57 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lunar Probe may make it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Meteor White may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the Lunar Probe is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Meteor White leans towards the medium-light range. Both switches offer different experiences based on the user's preference for force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lunar Probe has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Meteor White switch. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Meteor White offering a more typical 4 mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance experience.
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 SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a subtle sound signature, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile. The Lunar Probe may have a softer sound due to its pre-lubed linear sensation, while the Meteor White is described as neutral and thocky, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is known for its incredibly smooth and stable keypresses due to the dual rail mechanism. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Lunar Probe focusing on stability and consistency, while the Meteor White offers a soft and refined feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and SP-Star Meteor White linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lunar Probe excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Meteor White offers a softer feel and sound with a polished finish. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider the bottom out force difference, with the Lunar Probe being lighter at 50 grams compared to the Meteor White at 57 grams. If you prefer a stable and consistent keypress experience with smooth linear sensation and a subtle sound, the Lunar Probe is the way to go. However, if you lean towards a gentle and subdued typing experience with a soft sound profile, the Meteor White would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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