Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Phoenix 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 Phoenix clicky switch for your mechanical keyboard, there are some key differences to consider. The Lunar Probe is renowned for its stable and consistent keypresses, thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, offering a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique clicky experience that feels both crunchy and polished. While the Lunar Probe is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, the Phoenix offers a more tactile and audible feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Phoenix switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is also ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Lunar Probe uses nylon for its bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The impact of the bottom and top housing materials in a switch is essential for the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material, such as nylon in the Lunar Probe, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material, like polycarbonate in both switches, affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, ultimately influencing the typing sensation and sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Phoenix switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the Lunar Probe stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Phoenix, on the other hand, maintains consistency with polycarbonate throughout, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding how each housing material impacts the typing experience can help users select the switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch differ in weight. The Lunar Probe has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Phoenix has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who enjoy a stronger push feel, the Phoenix may be the better option. Overall, the Lunar Probe offers a lighter typing experience, while the Phoenix offers a heavier one. Both switches provide unique benefits based on personal preferences, with the Lunar Probe being lighter and the Phoenix being heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch both offer different travel distances, with the Lunar Probe coming in at 3.6 mm and the Phoenix at 3.3 mm. In comparison, the Lunar Probe has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. The Lunar Probe's 3.6 mm distance may provide a bit more key depth for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke, while the Phoenix's 3.3 mm distance may appeal to those who prioritize faster response times. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable options for gamers seeking quick and precise key presses. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 provides a subtle and smooth typing experience with a quiet sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a unique and crunchy sound profile that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, as some may prefer the quiet and soothing sound of the Lunar Probe, while others may enjoy the satisfying clickiness of the Phoenix.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers users an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and stable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is known for its polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you prefer the smoothness of the Lunar Probe or the polished feel of the Phoenix, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch both have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches, both options provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Lunar Probe and the Phoenix will come down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider the bottom out force and the unique features of each switch. If you prefer a light, smooth linear switch with stable keypresses, go for the Lunar Probe. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a unique clicky experience with a crystalline sound profile, opt for the Phoenix. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and keypress stability.
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