Gateron Lunar Probe vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Miaowu 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 KTT Miaowu stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Lunar Probe is praised for its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures consistent keypresses, offering an exceptionally smooth and pre-lubed linear experience with a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Miaowu boasts enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to KTT's latest molds and the use of POK in its stem. While the Lunar Probe is known for its stability and consistency, the Miaowu is favored for its bouncy and clacky typing experience. 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
43g
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
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Miaowu feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches that plan on utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual display. Furthermore, the texture and material quality of the polycarbonate top housing contribute to a more resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both the Lunar Probe and the Miaowu provide a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the top housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that adds depth to the typing experience. This split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a more dynamic typing feel, with the qualities of each material influencing different aspects of the typing process.
While both switches share similar housing materials in terms of their top and bottom configurations, their individual design and construction may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. The split between bottom and top housing qualities allows users to experience a range of sound profiles and tactile feedback throughout the typing process. Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and KTT Miaowu offers users a unique and versatile typing experience that combines sharpness, clarity, depth, and resonance in a single switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch reveals some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Lunar Probe is 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Miaowu's 43 grams. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equally heavy in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Miaowu may be a better choice due to its slightly lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe offers a slightly stronger push feel, which some may find more substantial for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm option, making them appealing to gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may impact the feel of the keys when pressed. Those who prefer a more responsive and snappy feel may lean towards the Miaowu switch, while others who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may opt for the Lunar Probe switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the subtle variation in travel distance.
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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 linear switch is known for providing a subtle sound signature, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, but specific descriptors for its feel are not provided. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron Lunar Probe and KTT Miaowu linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a more subtle sound with stable keypresses, the Lunar Probe may be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a clacky sound and a bouncy, lively feel when typing, the Miaowu switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a stable and consistent keypress experience with a smooth linear sensation and subtle sound signature, the Lunar Probe may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer enhanced stem stability, smoother keystroke action, and a slightly bouncy feel with a clacky sound, the Miaowu switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Happy typing!
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