Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Lunar Probe stands out for its novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, making it ideal for those seeking a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch is specifically designed for office environments, providing a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience perfect for professional settings. While the Lunar Probe offers a more tactile experience, the Mountain Top focuses on a lighter actuation and quieter operation. 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Mountain Top, the main difference lies in the top housing material. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile with a rounder tone. The nylon material absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller sound overall.
While the top housing materials of the Lunar Probe and Mountain Top differ, their bottom housing materials are both made of nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deep and full sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound effectively, creating a rounder and duller overall sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both the Lunar Probe and the Mountain Top switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Mountain Top influences the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The stiff polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe produces a crisp and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top creates a deeper and fuller tone. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which results in a consistent deep and full sound profile for both switches. Whether you prefer a sharper sound (Lunar Probe) or a deeper sound (Mountain Top), both switches offer a unique typing experience thanks to their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the Mountain Top being slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. Users who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Mountain Top, while those who enjoy a slightly stronger push may prefer the Lunar Probe. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience for extended periods, making them suitable for various typing tasks and gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Lunar Probe for its slightly shorter travel distance, as it can result in faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Mountain Top with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for 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 Mountain Top 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 is known for its subtle sound signature, providing a quiet typing experience that is not entirely silent. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being too disruptive. Ultimately, the sound of either switch will also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience with gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the Mountain Top switch is described as mild and subtle, providing a low-impact typing feel that is suitable for professional settings where discretion is valued.
In conclusion, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lunar Probe switch provides a smooth and stable typing experience with a subtle sound signature, while the Mountain Top switch caters to office environments with its bouncy and easy-to-press feel combined with a neutral sound profile. Both switches excel in their own right, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the user's workspace. Ultimately, when utilized in appropriate settings with compatible equipment, both switches are likely to deliver similar results in terms of performance and overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and intended use. If you prioritize smoothness and consistency in your keypresses, along with a subtle sound signature, the Lunar Probe would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a quiet typing experience tailored for office settings, with a light actuation force, the Mountain Top switch would better suit your needs. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences and usage requirements.
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