Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, you will find a distinct difference in their key characteristics. The Lunar Probe stands out for its innovative dual rail mechanism, ensuring reliable and consistent keypresses. Offering a silky smooth and pre-lubed linear feel, it also boasts a subtle sound signature for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch from Outemu lacks specific standout features, but is known for providing a tactile bump that offers feedback with each keystroke. While both switches have their own strengths and advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Milk Tea both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharp, high-pitched sound profile with a clear and resonant tone. This material is especially beneficial for switches designed for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Both switches provide a bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing, making them ideal choices for users who prefer a crisp and clear typing experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Lunar Probe utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that adds depth to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea also uses a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound profile and feel. Both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with the use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Overall, while the top housings of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Milk Tea are similar in material and sound profile, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, high-pitched sound with a clear tone or a deeper, fuller sound with a rounder tone, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preference for the specific sound profile and feel each housing material provides.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch are quite different. The Lunar Probe has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Milk Tea also has an actuation force of 45 grams but the bottom out force is unknown, indicating a potentially lighter typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Milk Tea, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might lean towards the Lunar Probe. Both switches offer similar actuation forces, so users can expect consistent typing experiences in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and resistance level.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience. Some users may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe for faster response times, while others may prefer the deeper feel of the Milk Tea switch. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable for the individual user. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so trying them out firsthand is the best way to determine which one suits your needs best.
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 Milk Tea 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 subtle and smooth sound signature, making typing on these switches a quiet and satisfying experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a consistent and stable keypress experience due to its dual rail mechanism, providing a buttery smooth linear sensation that is pre-lubed for added smoothness. The Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch's feel is unknown, but generally tactile switches provide a tactile bump during actuation, giving a more pronounced feedback compared to linear switches. The key feel is also affected by factors like actuation force and travel distance.
Overall, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches would be a solid choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and more pronounced keypress feel, the Outemu Milk Tea switches might be a better fit for you. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and consistent linear feel with a light bottom out force, the Lunar Probe may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a unique sound signature and are okay with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Milk Tea could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the type of typing experience that suits your needs best.
Mentioned in this article
