Gateron Lunar Probe vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with a subtle sound signature. The Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses, making it a reliable choice for users seeking precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Purple Star's all-POM construction provides a buttery smooth typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch with its 45g bottom-out. The Purple Star switch is also characterized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press', adding to its appeal for those looking for a comfortable typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe's housing materials provide a unique combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a clear and resonant tone, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. This blend of materials results in a switch that offers a balance of crispness and depth in its sound profile.
On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star features POM in both the top and bottom housing, offering a consistent sound experience throughout the entire switch. The POM top housing produces a unique and pleasing deep sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to polycarbonate. Similarly, the POM bottom housing contributes to this deeper sound profile, creating a cohesive and consistent typing experience. While the Purple Star may not have the same level of differentiation in sound between the top and bottom housing as the Lunar Probe, its use of POM in both components ensures a consistent and satisfying typing experience overall.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Purple Star will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Lunar Probe's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a blend of sharpness and depth, providing a dynamic typing experience. In comparison, the Purple Star's consistent use of POM in both top and bottom housings creates a uniquely deep and muted sound profile throughout. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, giving users the option to choose the sound profile that best suits their typing preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch are quite similar. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when fully pressed down. However, the Lunar Probe is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple Star's 43 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lunar Probe may be the better choice, while the Purple Star may appeal to those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users, but for those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Purple Star may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more depth in the keypress, the Lunar Probe might be a more suitable option. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, so you can expect similar results in terms of 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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its subtle sound signature, providing a quiet typing experience that won't disturb those around you. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on your personal preference, you can choose between a quieter typing experience with the Lunar Probe or a slightly more noticeable sound with the Purple Star.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring consistent and stable keypresses. The KTT Purple Star switch, with its all-POM construction and light 45g bottom-out, provides a buttery smooth typing experience that is ideal for light typists. The Purple Star switch also offers an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate the keys, making typing effortless and comfortable.
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and KTT Purple Star switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth and stable keypresses, the Lunar Probe switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a low-pitched sound profile with a buttery smooth typing feel and easy-to-press keys, the Purple Star switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize stability and consistency in keypresses, along with a smooth and pre-lubed linear feel, then the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with an all-POM construction and a very light 45g bottom-out force, the KTT Purple Star switch might be the better option for you, especially if you are a light typist seeking ease and comfort. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style.
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