Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Blue Jade offer contrasting experiences for users. The Lunar Probe, a linear switch, stands out for its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. It boasts a smooth, pre-lubed sensation and a subtle sound signature, making it a popular choice among those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue Jade, a clicky switch, is known for a distinct click sound with each press. While lacking specific standout features in the provided information, it appeals to users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. 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
2.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Blue Jade, we see a distinct difference in the materials used for their top housings. The Lunar Probe boasts a polycarbonate top housing, giving it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Blue Jade features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe is more likely to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency, giving it an added aesthetic appeal.
When it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Lunar Probe and the Blue Jade utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which is evident in the typing experience with these switches. Despite the different top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Blue Jade plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Blue Jade's nylon top housing, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate for a more resonant sound or the softer nylon for a more absorbing sound, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is evident that the Lunar Probe is lighter in both aspects. The Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Lunar Probe requires less force to trigger a keystroke and reach the bottom of the key press compared to the Blue Jade, making it a more lightweight option. The difference in force between the two switches can offer users varying typing experiences - with the Lunar Probe being ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, and the Blue Jade providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blue Jade switch has the longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The Lunar Probe's 3.6 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, providing a more responsive typing experience, which can be preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Blue Jade's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper keystroke, which some users may find more comfortable and less abrupt. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, catering to the preferences of different users.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its quiet and subtle sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for its crisp and satisfying click with each keypress, providing a more audible typing feedback. The sound produced by both switches will be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers a smooth and pre-lubed linear experience, ensuring consistent and stable keypresses. On the contrary, the Outemu Blue Jade switch provides a tactile and clicky feel, with each keystroke accompanied by a pronounced feedback. Whether you prefer the smooth linear feel of the Lunar Probe or the tactile clickiness of the Blue Jade will depend on your personal preference for typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of both sound and feel. If you are looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Lunar Probe switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you enjoy a tactile and clicky typing sensation, the Blue Jade switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, in choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a light bottom out force and smooth, linear keypresses with a subtle sound signature, the Lunar Probe may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a distinct clicky sound with each keypress, the Blue Jade could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
