Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Haimu Orange Sea, both linear switches that promise a smooth typing experience. The Gateron Lunar Probe stands out with its innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable and consistent keypresses, along with an incredibly smooth pre-lubed sensation that contributes to a silky, polished feel. Its mild and subdued sound signature makes it a great choice for quiet environments, letting you type away without causing disturbances. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea offers an impeccably smooth typing feel paired with a more neutral sound signature, making it an invigorating option for users who enjoy a lively typing experience. While both switches promise a satisfying linear feel, the choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and typing dynamics. 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

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Haimu Orange Sea switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in several similarities in their sound profiles and aesthetic characteristics. The use of polycarbonate, known for its rigidity and translucence, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience when typing. Both switches are designed with RGB lighting in mind, with clear housings that enhance the visual appeal by allowing light to pass through effectively. Consequently, users can expect similar results in the sound produced by these switches when it comes to the top housing, making them an excellent choice for those looking for vibrant lighting effects paired with a clean sound profile.

When examining the bottom housings of these two switches, however, the similarities continue as both the Lunar Probe and the Orange Sea utilize nylon material. Nylon is recognized for its softer properties, which lead to a deeper, fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Thus, when typing, users will experience a sound that is more rounded and less resonant than that created by the top polycarbonate housing. This shared material choice contributes to a balanced auditory experience, with the nylon bottom softening the impacts of keystrokes while the polycarbonate top retains clarity. The combined effect of the nylon bottom and polycarbonate top ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying sound signature that appeals to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

While the top and bottom housings of the Lunar Probe and Orange Sea switches are effectively the same, it's important to note how this influences the overall typing experience. The top housing, made of rigid polycarbonate, emphasizes the high frequencies and ensures a crisp release sound, while the nylon bottom accentuates the deeper tones and sounds when bottoming out. This unique synergy means that even with identical materials, users will perceive a layered audio experience, with each housing contributing distinct sonic qualities. Consequently, in terms of user experience, both switches demonstrate how these material choices work together to create a balanced auditory profile that satisfies users in different ways.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, both exemplify light force characteristics, but they differ in their specific metrics. The Lunar Probe features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who seek a moderately light typing experience. In contrast, the Orange Sea has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, appealing to users who prefer an even less strenuous keystroke. As such, while both switches allow for prolonged typing sessions without excessive fatigue, the Orange Sea provides a lighter touch, making it ideal for those who prioritize ease of use during extended activities. In summary, while both are relatively light, the Orange Sea is the lighter option, offering a softer push compared to the Lunar Probe's slightly heavier force.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that they require the same amount of movement from the top to the bottom when pressed. This equal distance ensures that users will experience similar keystroke depths and feedback when using either switch. Thus, if you're looking for a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, you can expect comparable results from both switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch presents a subdued audio profile, producing a dampened yet pleasant sound with each keypress. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a less intrusive typing experience, especially in shared environments where noise might be a concern. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switch features a neutral sound signature, which suggests that it neither draws attention nor completely muffles the sound. While the exact characteristics of the Orange Sea's sound are not detailed, both switches are geared towards providing a more controlled auditory experience compared to other louder mechanical switches.

In terms of feel, the Lunar Probe truly excels. This switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, with minimal resistance during key presses and releases, thanks to its factory lubrication and dual rail mechanism. The overall experience is mild yet subtle, making it approachable for a wide range of users without overwhelming them. On the other hand, the Orange Sea is characterized by its invigorating and accented feel. It delivers a prominent tactile feedback that is neither too harsh nor too soft, allowing for a snappy response that many typists find engaging. However, the emphasis on tactility differs from the otherwise smooth feel of the Lunar Probe, giving users distinct typing sensations depending on their preference.

In summary, while both the Gateron Lunar Probe and Haimu Orange Sea switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, they cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe is ideal for those seeking a smooth, subdued auditory and tactile experience, making it excellent for quieter environments. In contrast, the Orange Sea offers an invigorating feel with noticeable feedback and a neutral sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile interaction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired balance between sound and tactile sensations.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a smoother, ultra-refined typing experience with a subtle sound profile that fits well in shared spaces, the Lunar Probe's silky and polished characteristics combined with its subdued sound will be your best bet. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a smooth feel without the distraction of loud typing noise. Conversely, if you enjoy a bit more feedback in your keystrokes and are looking for a switch that presents a slightly snappier and invigorating feel, then the Haimu Orange Sea may be the preferred option. Its neutral sound signature and moderate tactility could enhance your typing experience if you appreciate a little more presence in your keystrokes without overwhelming noise. When making your decision, consider not only your personal typing style but also the setting in which you'll be using these switches, as both options cater well to different needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying keyboard experience tailored just for you.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more