Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique benefits catered to different preferences. The Lunar Probe switch stands out for its stable and consistent keypresses thanks to Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism, providing a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Mini i switch excels in offering gentle tactility with a muted sound profile, perfect for office settings where quiet professionalism is valued. While the Lunar Probe is ideal for those seeking a linear switch experience, the Mini i caters to individuals looking for a tactile feedback without the loud clack. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Mini i differ in their top housing material. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Mini i is equipped with a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer unique benefits to the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Lunar Probe and the Mini i utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This means that when typing on either switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel, contributing to a rounder and duller tone. While the top housing may have a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing's impact is felt during key presses and bottom-out sounds.
In cases where the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each material are split between the two components. The Lunar Probe's use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing results in a blend of crispness and depth in sound profile. Similarly, the Mini i's combination of nylon top and bottom housings offers a balance of sharpness and fullness in sound. Overall, the housing materials of both switches contribute to a unique typing experience, with each material bringing its own set of characteristics to the table.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have relatively light weight requirements. The Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that both switches offer a light touch when typing, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. The slight difference in actuation force may not be very noticeable in practical terms, so users can expect a similar typing experience when using either switch. Overall, both switches are great options for those who prefer a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Lunar Probe has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly deeper feel when pressing the key compared to the Mini i. However, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 offers a subtle sound signature that doesn't overpower the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of environments, including office settings. Both switches offer a quiet typing experience, ensuring that your keystrokes won't disturb those around you. Ultimately, whether you choose the Lunar Probe or the Mini i, you can expect similar results in terms of sound with slight differences based on your setup.
As for feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch boasts an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and stable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with a mild tactile response that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, making them excellent choices for extended typing sessions. While the Lunar Probe and Mini i switches offer different tactile experiences, both deliver high-quality performance that caters to different preferences.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Lunar Probe excels in offering a smooth and stable linear typing experience with a subtle sound profile, while the Mini i strikes a balance with gentle tactility and a muted sound profile suitable for office settings. Whether you prioritize a linear typing experience with stable keypresses or a tactile typing experience with gentle feedback, both switches offer excellent performance and comfort for a variety of users. Ultimately, choosing between the Lunar Probe and Mini i switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that both options will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you are looking for a smooth, linear typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Lunar Probe is a great choice. Its light bottom out force and stable keypresses make it ideal for fast typists who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, if you value gentle tactility and a muted sound profile, the Mini i switch is perfect for office settings where a professional and quiet typing experience is crucial. Its easy-to-press design and bouncy feel ensure comfort during long typing sessions without sacrificing feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should align with your typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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