Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique features catered towards different preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its innovative dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. Known for its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, these switches provide a subtle sound signature, making them ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean remains a mystery in terms of specific features, yet it is categorized as a linear switch as well. If you are in search of a switch that prioritizes stability and smooth keypresses with minimal noise, the Gateron Lunar Probe may be the way to go. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Silent Ocean, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in the bottom housing material, with the Lunar Probe utilizing nylon and the Dustproof Silent Ocean also opting for nylon. Nylon is favored for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Lunar Probe and the Dustproof Silent Ocean share similarities in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing, they showcase variations in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. The split qualities of each housing material impact the overall sound and feel of the switches differently. The bottom housing has a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings can lead to distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While both switches benefit from the attributes of polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound depth and fullness. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall performance of the switches can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs and preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of actuation. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe requires 50 grams, making it lighter than the Dustproof Silent Ocean, which needs 65 grams to bottom out. This means that the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel compared to the Lunar Probe. For those who prefer a lighter feel to type for longer periods, the Lunar Probe might be the better option, while those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times, the Lunar Probe offers a bit more depth in its travel distance. For those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Lunar Probe may be the better option. However, if you prefer a more responsive and quicker keystroke, the Dustproof Silent Ocean would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of travel distance.
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 Silent Ocean 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
Overall, when comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, both switches have their own unique qualities and benefits. The Lunar Probe offers a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch's subjective qualities are unknown, but it is likely to offer a silent typing experience due to its dustproof design. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Lunar Probe focusing on smoothness and consistency while the Dustproof Silent Ocean potentially offering a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light linear switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth, pre-lubed keypress experience, then the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a silent switch option, then the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for keypress feel and sound, as well as the specific typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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