Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, you are faced with a decision between smoothness and tactility. The Lunar Probe is renowned for its stable and consistent keypresses, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation that is perfect for those who prefer a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo provides a delightfully crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, striking a balance between satisfying keystrokes and comfort. 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
55g
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
POM
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Oreo, we find that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. The top housing, being the most visible part of the switch, plays a significant role in both the sound profile and aesthetics of these switches. However, where the Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Oreo opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper and clearer sound.
While both the Lunar Probe and the Everglide Oreo share a polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the choice of bottom housing material. The Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile associated with this stiffer material. This suggests that the typing experience on these switches will vary in terms of sound and feel, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Oreo play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles and typing experiences of these switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that results in a sharp and resonant sound with the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, these differences in housing materials offer users a variety of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is the same at 45 grams, making them both light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches. The Lunar Probe requires 50 grams of force to bottom out, while the Oreo requires 55 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of pressing all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lunar Probe may be the better option, as it allows for typing for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo may appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired amount of force feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Oreo has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. For individuals who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Lunar Probe with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press feel may lean towards the Everglide Oreo. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Lunar Probe providing a quicker response and the Oreo offering a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance when typing.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch provides a subtle sound signature, offering a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as having a chirpy sound profile, which adds a unique acoustic element to your typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is praised for its incredibly smooth and consistent keypresses, delivering a seamless linear sensation with each press. In contrast, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a medium light tactility that strikes a balance between a satisfying tactile bump at the top and a cushioned feel when bottoming out. This switch is described as accented and stepped, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle, giving typists a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth linear keypresses, the Lunar Probe switch would be an excellent choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a tactile bump with a unique chirpy sound, the Oreo switch would be a delightful option. Both switches provide a high level of quality and performance, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience no matter which one you choose.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch or the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent linear keystroke with a subtle sound profile, the Lunar Probe may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a crisp and responsive bump at the top, followed by a cushioned bottom out sensation and a unique chirpy sound profile, then the Oreo could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so be sure to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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