Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Gateron Lunar Probe's dual rail mechanism ensures stable and consistent keypresses, while providing an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red maintains the classic characteristics of the MX Red but with the added benefit of operating silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities to offer, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific requirements. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Silent Red, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both switches. However, the Lunar Probe's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Silent Red's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate is stiffer and more resonant, providing a different typing experience compared to the softer and duller sound profile of nylon.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Gateron Lunar Probe also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic component to the switch. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red's all-nylon housing does not offer the same visually appealing feature. While both switches provide a unique sound profile due to their housing materials, the choice between a sharper, higher-pitched sound from polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound from nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings of the switches. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. The split between polycarbonate and nylon in the Gateron Lunar Probe and Cherry MX Silent Red showcases how different housing materials can affect not only the sound profile but also the tactile feedback and typing experience of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe has a slightly heavier force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red, which is unknown. The difference in bottom out force may be noticeable to users who prefer a more solid feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how much force one wants to exert while typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the 0.1 mm difference may be noticeable to some users, with the Lunar Probe feeling slightly more responsive compared to the MX Silent Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - with the Lunar Probe being the shorter option and the MX Silent Red being the longer option.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
The Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation that provides a consistent and stable keypress, paired with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch maintains the slightly heavier feel of the MX Red switch but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. When it comes to sound, the Lunar Probe's sound profile is currently unspecified, while the MX Silent Red switch is known for its muted, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, providing a quieter typing experience. In terms of feel, the Lunar Probe's tactile sensation is currently unspecified, while the MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel that some users may prefer for its friction.
In conclusion, while the specific sound and feel qualities of the Gateron Lunar Probe and Cherry MX Silent Red switches may differ, both switches offer a linear typing experience. The Lunar Probe switch is praised for its smooth and stable keypress, while the MX Silent Red switch is favored for its silent operation, making it suitable for quiet settings. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing environment, both switches can provide a satisfying and efficient typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether a quiet typing experience or a smooth keypress is the top priority for the user.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Lunar Probe may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a slightly quieter typing experience and do not mind sacrificing a bit of smoothness, the MX Silent Red could be more suitable. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and usage scenario. Whether you opt for the Lunar Probe for its stability and smoothness, or the MX Silent Red for its silent operation, both switches offer unique attributes that cater to different user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your individual preferences and requirements for a satisfying typing experience.
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