Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Dustproof Green present two distinct options to choose from. The Lunar Probe is a linear switch by Gateron, known for its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. These switches offer an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, paired with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green is a clicky switch without a specific standout feature. The choice between these switches may depend on personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Dustproof Green, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This results in a clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Therefore, both the Lunar Probe and Dustproof Green switches will provide similar sound and visual experiences with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the differences arise in the bottom housings of these switches. The Lunar Probe features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This contrast in bottom housing materials may contribute to a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Lunar Probe offering a potentially richer sound profile compared to the Dustproof Green.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Dustproof Green play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings that create a distinct sound profile and are ideal for RGB lighting, the nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Dustproof Green. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch further highlights how each material contributes to different aspects of the typing experience, ultimately influencing the overall feel and sound of these mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that the two switches offer different experiences in terms of force requirements. The Lunar Probe has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Choosing between the two switches depends on individual preferences, with the Lunar Probe being the lighter option and the Dustproof Green being the heavier one. Ultimately, selecting the right switch will help users achieve their desired typing or gaming experience based on their preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Green has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. A 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Green may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer deeper keypresses. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dustproof Green 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 the subjective qualities of sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a subtle and quiet typing experience due to its smooth, pre-lubed mechanism, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter workspace. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is known for its satisfying click sound with each keypress, providing auditory feedback to the user. The sound produced by each switch is subjective and can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard they are attached to and the keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is praised for its incredibly smooth and consistent keypresses, thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism that ensures stability. Users will enjoy a seamless typing experience with a linear sensation when using this switch. On the contrary, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch offers a tactile and audible feedback with each keypress, providing a more pronounced sensation when typing. The feel of a switch is a personal preference and can vary depending on the user's typing style and preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a quiet and smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize a consistent and stable keypress. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch provides a satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, catering to users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it all comes down to your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch and a smooth linear typing experience with a subtle sound, then the Lunar Probe switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a clicky typing experience, then the Dustproof Green switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Lunar Probe and Dustproof Green switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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