Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch. The Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, offering an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is renowned for its rapid response and full height design for maximum speed, featuring linear action and low spring resistance for instant triggering, making it a go-to choice for gamers seeking quick response times. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specific features will help you make the best decision for your keyboard setup.
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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this material for their bottom housing, the distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile.
The choice of housing materials for the top housing of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Speed Silver plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing produces a clear and resonant sound profile, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound when compared to the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, creating a different typing experience for users. While both switches may have a nylon bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials ultimately leads to distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Speed Silver significantly impact the sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe provides a more pronounced and sharp sound profile, ideal for those seeking a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to users who prefer a rounder typing experience. Despite sharing a nylon bottom housing material, the choice of top housing material distinguishes these switches in terms of sound quality and overall typing sensation.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Lunar Probe has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the MX Speed Silver's lighter 30 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe requires 50 grams while the MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Lunar Probe switch is lighter overall compared to the MX Speed Silver. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may desire the heavier bottom out force of the Lunar Probe for a more substantial typing experience. 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable choices for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The Lunar Probe's slightly longer travel distance may provide a bit more depth for those who prefer a more gradual key press, while the MX Speed Silver's shorter travel distance offers a quicker and more immediate key press experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 comparing the sound of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches, the Lunar Probe is known for its subtle sound signature, offering a quiet and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver is described as producing a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and satisfying auditory feedback. While both switches offer a linear typing feel, the difference in sound between the two can impact the overall typing experience, with the Lunar Probe leaning towards a quieter operation compared to the more pronounced sound of the MX Speed Silver.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe is praised for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and stable keypress with minimal friction. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured feel, offering a slightly rougher typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed. While some users may prefer the smoother feel of the Lunar Probe, others may enjoy the tactile feedback provided by the textured MX Speed Silver switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Lunar Probe excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience with stable keypresses, making it suitable for users who value a subtle sound signature and minimal friction. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its rapid response and textured feel, appealing to gamers and users looking for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize smooth and stable keypresses with a light bottom out force, opt for the Lunar Probe. On the other hand, if speed and instant response are crucial for your gaming experience, the MX Speed Silver with its full height and low spring resistance may be the better choice. Both switches offer different advantages in terms of sound and feel, so make sure to test them out and see which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style. Ultimately, the decision rests on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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