Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer unique features and benefits to suit different preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, delivering a smooth and pre-lubed linear experience with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura shines with its tactile response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overwhelming, accompanied by a mild and neutral sound signature. While the Lunar Probe offers a linear typing experience, the Purple Sakura provides a tactile 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that include RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. With both switches utilizing the same material for their top housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Lunar Probe utilizes nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Purple Sakura also features a nylon bottom housing, providing users with a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the bottom-out action of the switch.
Overall, while both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura have different bottom housing materials, they share the same polycarbonate top housing material. This allows for a consistent sound profile and typing experience when using either switch. The combination of materials used in these switches results in a balanced sound with a sharp and clear tone when typing, making them both suitable options for those looking for a premium typing experience. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the visual appeal of the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Lunar Probe is lighter in both aspects. The Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Purple Sakura has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the Lunar Probe a better choice for those who prefer lighter switches, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Purple Sakura. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Lunar Probe has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. The Lunar Probe may provide a slightly more pronounced keypress feel due to its longer travel distance, whereas the Purple Sakura's shorter travel distance might feel more snappy and responsive. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference 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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 provides a subtle sound signature due to its smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a mild and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses without being too loud or distracting. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience without overly loud or clacky sounds, allowing for a more peaceful environment while typing.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its stable and consistent keypresses, contributing to a smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery and snappy tactile feedback, striking a delicate balance between being pronounced and gentle. These switches provide a satisfying tactile sensation without being too harsh or too soft, catering to those looking for a more lively typing experience without sacrificing comfort.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Gateron Lunar Probe switch excels in providing a stable and consistent linear typing experience with a subtle sound signature, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery and snappy tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by offering a balance between sound, feel, and performance.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prefer a lighter keypress with a stable and smooth linear sensation, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium keypress with a satisfying tactile bump and a buttery downstroke, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for keypress weight, typing experience, and sound profile. Whichever switch you choose, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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