Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Brown both offer unique qualities to consider. The Gateron Lunar Probe, a linear switch, is praised for its smooth and pre-lubed keypresses, providing a consistent typing experience with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch, is known for its gentle tactility and light typing experience, offering a more subdued audio feedback. While the Lunar Probe excels in providing stability and smoothness, the MX Brown focuses on subtlety and a tactile 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Brown, we can see some key differences. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the MX Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, we see similar characteristics between the two switches. Both the Lunar Probe and the MX Brown use nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound. This consistent use of nylon for the bottom housing allows for a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile between the two switches.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Brown differ in terms of sound profiles, the bottom housing materials provide a more consistent typing experience. The Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the MX Brown's nylon top housing gives off a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. The choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Lunar Probe has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the MX Brown's heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to register a keystroke, the Lunar Probe offers a lighter overall typing experience with less resistance when bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lunar Probe may be the more suitable option. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance, the Cherry MX Brown switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the MX Brown may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial keypress experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of what type of key feel you prefer.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 and smooth sound signature, providing a quiet typing experience that won't be disruptive in a shared workspace. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, with the Lunar Probe being quieter and more understated, while the MX Brown offers a slightly more pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is praised for its smooth and consistent keypresses, thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism that ensures stability. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is characterized by a textured feel, with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the smooth and friction-free experience of the Lunar Probe, while others may enjoy the tactile feedback provided by the textured MX Brown switch.
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you're looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Lunar Probe may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a tactile feedback and a slightly more pronounced sound profile, the MX Brown could be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a smooth and consistent linear sensation with a subtle sound profile, then the Lunar Probe may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light typing experience with gentle tactility and a subdued sound, then the Cherry MX Brown switch would be a great choice. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel when making your decision, as they will greatly impact your overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your individual preferences.
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