Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron North Pole V2 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 Gateron North Pole V2 both offer unique features that appeal to different preferences. The Lunar Probe is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses, thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, while also providing a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 stands out for its gummy typing feel and deep, muted sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience. Each switch is categorized differently, with the Lunar Probe falling under a category of its own and the North Pole V2 being described as 'Gummy', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for top housing if RGB lighting is a feature you want to highlight in your keyboard setup. By using the same material for their top housing, both switches offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits when it comes to lighting customization.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Lunar Probe utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound compared to the harder polycarbonate, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. In contrast, the North Pole V2 sticks with polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, maintaining a consistent sharp, higher-pitched sound profile throughout the switch. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it becomes clear that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Lunar Probe, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile when pressing down on keys, creating a specific tactile feedback for users. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile of the switch, complementing the qualities of its top housing for a consistent typing experience. In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in both switches offers unique sound profiles and typing experiences for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Lunar Probe has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lunar Probe may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences among users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The Lunar Probe's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the North Pole V2's longer travel distance may provide a more impactful keystroke for others. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key 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 Gateron North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch provides a subtle sound signature due to its smooth, pre-lubed linear action. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile, creating a deep and muted typing experience. Both switches aim to offer a quieter typing experience than other switches, with the North Pole V2 having a slightly more muted sound compared to the Lunar Probe. The choice of keyboard and keycaps can also affect the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its stable and consistent keypresses thanks to the dual rail mechanism, providing an incredibly smooth linear sensation. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy typing feel, described as being akin to typing on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch is also described as creamy, bouncy, and polished, indicating a smooth, spring-like, and refined typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Lunar Probe focusing on consistent keypresses and smooth linear action while the North Pole V2 provides a more textured and bouncy feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Lunar Probe and North Pole V2 linear switches both offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lunar Probe switch provides a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature, the North Pole V2 switch delivers a deep and muted sound profile along with a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished typing feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the stable and consistent keypresses of the Lunar Probe or the unique tactile experience of the North Pole V2. Both switches aim to satisfy users looking for a quieter and more tactile typing experience, with each offering its own set of desirable qualities. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a lighter and smoother linear switch with a stable and consistent keypress experience, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a deep and muted sound profile, along with a chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, preferred bottom out force, and sound and feel preferences when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different individual preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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