Gateron Lunar Probe vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe, a linear switch, to the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe stands out for its smooth and stable keypresses due to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, providing a consistent linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis excels in effortless typing with its light actuation force of 37g, minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The 50g tactile force also ensures a satisfying bump with every keystroke. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Phalaenopsis, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, the Lunar Probe differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis maintains consistency with a polycarbonate bottom housing, ensuring a uniform sound quality throughout the switch.
Although both the Lunar Probe and Phalaenopsis switches feature polycarbonate in their top housings, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a mellower and rounder sound when typing, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with this material. This contrast showcases how housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials of a switch can influence different aspects of typing experience. The bottom housing typically has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding the properties of different housing materials like polycarbonate and nylon, users can tailor their switch selection to achieve the desired typing experience, whether it be a sharper sound profile with polycarbonate or a fuller sound with nylon.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Lunar Probe requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Phalaenopsis requires 37 grams, making the Phalaenopsis slightly lighter in this aspect. However, they both have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent feel when fully pressing the keys. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, either of these switches would be a suitable choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance for a more tactile typing experience, they may want to consider other options with heavier actuation forces. Both the Lunar Probe and the Phalaenopsis offer a smooth typing experience with a relatively light touch, making them ideal for those who prioritize comfort during extended periods of keyboard use.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Lunar Probe has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Phalaenopsis's 4 mm. The Lunar Probe's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Phalaenopsis's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lunar Probe slightly on the shallower end and the Phalaenopsis on the deeper end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing or gaming experience.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 providing a subtle sound signature, resulting in a quiet typing experience overall. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, giving a deeper and richer auditory feedback during key presses. Depending on personal preference, the Lunar Probe switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis switch would cater to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying sound while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lunar Probe switch lacks a specific descriptor in regards to its tactile feel. On the contrary, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, meaning it provides a two-stage tactile feedback where users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. This design offers a mild tactile experience compared to other switches, ensuring a comfortable typing session with minimal finger fatigue. Ultimately, the Lunar Probe switch would be ideal for those who prefer a seamless linear typing feel, while the Phalaenopsis switch would be preferred by individuals seeking a gentle tactile feedback during typing.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience with smooth linear keypresses, the Lunar Probe switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying auditory feedback along with a gentle tactile feel during typing, the Phalaenopsis switch would be the suitable option. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing habits when selecting between these two switches to ensure an enjoyable and efficient typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and consistent linear switch with a light bottom out force, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a lighter actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize smoothness and consistency or a tactile feedback, when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to choose the one that best suits your typing style.
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