Gateron Lunar Probe vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Purple Click mechanical keyboard switches, we find two distinct options for different preferences. The Lunar Probe, a linear switch, boasts Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, providing an ultra-smooth and pre-lubed typing experience with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Purple Click, a clicky switch, offers a high-pitched and satisfying click while still maintaining a light keystroke and pronounced tactility. Each switch is categorized differently, with the Lunar Probe focusing on smoothness and consistency, and the Purple Click balancing clicky feedback with a light touch. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Purple Click switches are quite similar, as they both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Lunar Probe utilizing a nylon bottom housing and the Purple Click also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon tends to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the distinction in their bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in the Lunar Probe and Purple Click switches impact the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This softer material absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released, with the stiffer polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound. The combination of these housing materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience that may appeal to different preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Purple Click will come down to personal preference regarding the sound and feel of typing. Both switches offer a high-quality polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for users looking for a more distinctive typing experience. However, the variance in their nylon bottom housing materials provides a different tactile response, with the Lunar Probe offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Purple Click. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Lunar Probe or a rounder sound with the Purple Click, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in switch housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Purple Click clicky switch with a 40-gram actuation force. However, the Lunar Probe has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the 55-gram bottom out force of the Purple Click. This means that while the Lunar Probe may require a bit more force to fully press down, the Purple Click needs less force to trigger a keystroke. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, which is suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Purple Click has a longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The Lunar Probe's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Purple Click's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel to those who prefer that. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific 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 KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is known for its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offers a fairly high-pitched and satisfying click without being overwhelming, along with a light keystroke and pronounced tactility. When it comes to sound, the Lunar Probe remains unknown while the Purple Click is described as having a crunchy and resonant sound profile. In terms of feel, the Lunar Probe is also unknown, while the Purple Click is said to offer an invigorating typing sensation with moderate to firm actuation force and a reactive feel. Overall, while the sound and feel of these switches may differ, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a satisfying, crunchy sound profile, the KTT Purple Click switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a linear typing sensation or a clicky feedback, as well as the specific sound and feel you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard switches. Both switches have their unique qualities, so it is important to consider what attributes are most important to you when making your selection.
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