Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch. The Gateron Lunar Probe is praised for its innovative dual rail mechanism, ensuring reliable and uniform keypresses. It offers a smooth, pre-lubed linear feel with a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but is known for its tactile response. If you prefer a switch that provides tactile feedback, the Outemu Purple might be the better choice. 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
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
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 Purple, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, making it visually appealing as well. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lunar Probe uses nylon while the Purple also opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other materials. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In this aspect, both switches share the same material for the bottom housing, providing users with a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
It is worth noting that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of a switch. The bottom housing tends to have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released. This division of characteristics between top and bottom housings may result in subtle differences in typing experience between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Purple, despite them sharing similarities in their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Purple tactile switch with an actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Lunar Probe is also lighter at 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Purple switch is unknown. This means that the Lunar Probe switch would be easier to type on for longer periods of time due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, the Lunar Probe switch is lighter overall, making it a more suitable option for those looking for a smoother typing experience, while the Purple switch offers a heavier touch for those who prefer a more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, the Lunar Probe has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may seem minor, but it can have a noticeable impact on typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lunar Probe with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more pronounced keypress may opt for the Outemu Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Purple 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 it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound profile is not specified, so it may vary depending on personal preference and other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is praised for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and stable typing experience. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is not specified, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison without more information.
Overall, while the sound and feel of these switches may differ based on personal preference and setup, both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Whether you prefer a smoother linear switch with a subtle sound or a tactile switch with an unknown feel, exploring and experimenting with both options can provide valuable insight into your preferred typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, keypress stability, smoothness, and sound signature. If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy smooth, pre-lubed linear keypresses with a subtle sound, then the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize keypress stability and a tactile feedback experience, the Outemu Purple switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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