Gateron Lunar Probe vs. KTT Mint

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Mint mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their smooth keypresses. The Lunar Probe stands out with its novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Mint provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem, offering a light and fleeting feel. While the Lunar Probe is categorized as a standard linear switch, the Mint is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

KTT Mint Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

$2.91 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Mint feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, it's worth noting that the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound when the key is released.

In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material plays a key role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. With both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.

Overall, while the Gateron Lunar Probe and KTT Mint have similarities in their housing materials, such as both using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the impact of these materials on the sound and feel of the switches may differ slightly. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing will contribute to a sharper sound when keys are released, while the softer nylon bottom housing will create a deeper sound when keys are pressed down. These differences in material properties result in unique typing experiences for each switch.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Lunar Probe has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter than the Mint, which has a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Lunar Probe requires less force to fully press the key compared to the Mint. This difference can impact the typing experience for users, with the Lunar Probe offering a lighter feel and the Mint providing a slightly heavier push. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lunar Probe, while those looking for a more substantial feel may opt for the Mint. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mint has a longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The 4.0mm distance of the Mint is more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience, which can be preferred by those who enjoy more tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe's shorter 3.6mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times and a more immediate feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, the Lunar Probe is known for providing a subtle sound signature, while the Mint is characterized as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The Lunar Probe offers a quieter typing experience, ideal for those looking for a more discreet switch. On the other hand, the Mint's low-pitched sound gives a bass-heavy and mellow tone, appealing to those who enjoy a more distinctive typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the Lunar Probe offering a quieter option and the Mint providing a unique sound experience.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch offer different tactile experiences. The Lunar Probe is praised for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, promising a stable and consistent keypress. On the other hand, the Mint is described as providing a light and fleeting typing feel, with a mild and polished touch. The Lunar Probe's smooth and consistent keypresses may appeal to those seeking a reliable and uniform typing experience, while the Mint's light and polished feel offers a more gentle and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and feedback.

In conclusion, when comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lunar Probe excels in providing a stable and consistent keypress with a subtle sound signature, while the Mint offers a low-pitched and poppy thockiness with a light and polished typing feel. Despite their differences, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience for users looking for linear switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Lunar Probe and the Mint will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and other factors such as board and keycap choices, ensuring that users can find the perfect switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider the bottom out force of each switch. The Lunar Probe has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mint has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams. If you prefer a lighter touch and a stable, consistent keypress experience, the Lunar Probe may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly more tactile typing experience with a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting feel, the Mint switch may be more appealing. Additionally, consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to determine which aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the switch that best suits your individual typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mint Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more