Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Orange both stand out as strong contenders in the linear switch category, yet they cater to different preferences and play styles. The Gateron Lunar Probe is widely acclaimed for its innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable and consistent keypresses, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who value precision. Its incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear feel and subtle sound signature provide an enjoyable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange has made a comeback as a revamped version of its predecessor, featuring enhancements that make it a compelling option for those seeking that classic Cherry MX experience. While it also offers a linear feel, the MX Orange’s design may appeal more to nostalgic users who appreciate a blend of historical significance and modern comfort. As you weigh these options, consider factors like typing style and sound preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Orange, we find a notable contrast between their top components. The Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, distinguished for its stiffer attributes, which contributes to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This effect is accentuated if the housing is clear, as it allows for enhanced RGB lighting visibility, making it a favored choice for gamers and enthusiasts looking for both aesthetics and performance. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange employs a nylon top housing, a traditional choice known for yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience that caters to users who prefer a more subdued typing noise.

Examining the bottom housings reveals an interesting disparity: both the Gateron Lunar Probe and Cherry MX Orange leverage nylon for their bottom housing. The characteristics of nylon contribute similarly in both switches, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. As a result, both switches benefit from a consistent sound experience when bottoming out, which can be crucial for users who prioritize keystroke feedback. The similarity in bottom housing materials blurs the lines in this specific aspect of performance, giving both switches a comparable feeling when pressed down, regardless of their differing top housings.

Overall, the combination of these housing materials plays a critical role in defining the sound and feel of each switch. For the Lunar Probe, the crispness of polycarbonate combines with the depth of nylon, creating a more dynamic contrast between the top and bottom during keystrokes. The Cherry MX Orange offers a more unified acoustic profile due to its nylon top and bottom. Consequently, if users seek a more responsive and pronounced auditory feedback, the Lunar Probe would be preferable; however, for those drawn to a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange stands out. Despite their differences, both switches demonstrate how the interplay of different housing materials can yield a customizable typing experience, catering to distinct preferences among users.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch to the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, notable differences in actuation force can be observed. The Lunar Probe features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the MX Orange has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This makes the Lunar Probe more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke, potentially reducing finger fatigue. In terms of bottom-out force, the Lunar Probe reaches a bottom-out force of 50 grams, whereas the information for the MX Orange's bottom out force is unknown. This means we can't compare their bottom-out experiences directly, but the overall impression is that the Lunar Probe is the lighter switch providing a softer typing experience, while the MX Orange, being the heavier option, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel in their key presses.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, we find a notable difference. The Lunar Probe features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange extends to 4.0 mm. This means that the Lunar Probe has a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for users who favor faster keystrokes, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and deliberate feel when typing. In summary, if responsiveness is your priority, the Gateron Lunar Probe could be your go-to, but if you enjoy a deeper keystroke experience, the Cherry MX Orange would be more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is subtle, contributing to a pleasantly underwhelming auditory experience without overwhelming noise, which makes it suitable for both quiet office settings and for night-time use at home. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch also possesses a balanced sound, characterized by a moderate acoustic feedback that resonates more than the Lunar Probe, offering a distinctive yet not overly loud typing experience. However, it is important to remember that the acoustics of both switches can vary significantly depending on the specific keyboard build, including the materials used for the case and keycaps.

When considering the feel of these switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe is celebrated for its incredibly smooth and consistent key travel due to the dual rail mechanism, which feels plush and refined beneath the fingers, allowing for a linear sensation that many typists find satisfying. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange switch features enhancements that revive its original predecessor's characteristics, delivering a slightly more textured experience with a bit more resistance that some users may prefer for a tactile engagement when typing or gaming. Both switches, however, cater well to linear switch enthusiasts, providing a favorable experience for users who prioritize smoothness in keypresses.

In conclusion, while both the Gateron Lunar Probe and Cherry MX Orange linear switches present unique auditory and tactile qualities, they ultimately cater to similar preferences in linear experiences. The Lunar Probe leans more towards a smooth and subtle profile, while the MX Orange introduces a bit more characteristic sound and feel that some users may enjoy. Choosing between these two may come down to personal preference; either way, users can expect a high-quality performance from both switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches and Cherry MX Orange linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lighter keypress and are looking for an exceptionally smooth and consistent typing experience, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches may be the ideal option for you. Their lower actuation force of 50 grams and innovative dual rail mechanism make them excellent for gaming or fast-paced typing, where speed and accuracy are essential. Additionally, their subtle sound profile and pre-lubed feel add to the overall user experience, making them enjoyable for extended usage. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a switch with proven reliability that has been refined over time, the Cherry MX Orange might be a better fit. Known for their robust construction and solid tactile feedback, these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for both typing and gaming, though they feature an unavailable bottom-out force specification. In essence, opt for the Lunar Probe for a lightweight, smooth ride or the MX Orange for a classic and reliable feel—your choice should align with the typing experience you aspire to achieve.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more