Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Tom offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Lunar Probe is a linear switch, featuring Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses. Known for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed feel, these switches provide a subtle sound signature that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch with tactile feedback, offering a different typing experience compared to the smooth linear sensation of the Lunar Probe. While the Lunar Probe excels in providing a smooth experience, the Tom offers a more pronounced tactile response. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Tom both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the different top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material, in this case nylon, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, polycarbonate in this instance, has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This combination of different housing materials allows for a more balanced and nuanced typing experience, with each material contributing its own unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Lunar Probe or the Outemu Tom, you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience. Both switches feature a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, resulting in a unique sound profile that captures both the sharpness of polycarbonate and the depth of nylon. Whether you prefer a crisper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer a blend of materials that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that typing on the Lunar Probe will require less force to register a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Additionally, the Lunar Probe has a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Tom switch is unknown, making it difficult to compare this aspect. Overall, if you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Lunar Probe would be the better choice, while those who prefer a heavier push feel might lean towards the Outemu Tom switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Tom has a shorter travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The Lunar Probe falls within the range of shorter travel distances, making it a good choice for those seeking faster response times, like gamers. On the other hand, the Tom with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Tom 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, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its smooth and pre-lubed feel, resulting in consistent keypresses. The sound produced by these switches is subtle, making them suitable for quiet environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch's qualities are currently unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if the Tom switch is similar to other tactile switches, it may offer a satisfying tactile bump during key presses.
In conclusion, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy the tactile feedback of a tactile switch, the Outemu Tom switch could potentially offer a similar level of satisfaction. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you prioritize a smooth and stable linear switch with a light bottom out force, the Gateron Lunar Probe would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a unique feel and possibly a different sound profile, the Outemu Tom might be more suited to your liking. Consider your typing style, preferences, and needs when selecting between these two switches to ensure that you have the best typing experience possible.
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