Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Red Panda offer unique experiences to users. The Gateron Lunar Probe is a linear switch known for its stable and consistent keypresses, thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism. It provides an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While the Lunar Probe focuses on providing a smooth linear typing experience, the Red Panda aims for a more tactile and audibly satisfying 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
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches results in a clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it ideal for switches that prioritize aesthetics and customization. With similar top housings, users can expect a consistent sound experience from both the Lunar Probe and Red Panda switches.
On the other hand, the Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Red Panda also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. This is because nylon is a softer material that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. By incorporating nylon in the bottom housing, both switches offer a unique typing experience that enhances the overall sound and feel of keystrokes.
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Red Panda, it becomes evident that the top and bottom housings play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches adds depth and fullness to the typing sound. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings ensure a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, making each switch unique in its own right.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch. The Lunar Probe requires a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for lighter or heavier keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The difference of 0.3 mm may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in terms of feel and response. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Red Panda for faster response, or the slightly longer travel distance of the Lunar Probe for a more substantial key press feel.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 offers a subtle sound signature with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a thocky sound with a bassier bottom-out and a clackier top-out. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Lunar Probe emphasizing smoothness and the Red Panda showcasing a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses due to its dual rail mechanism. The linear sensation provided by these switches is incredibly smooth, offering a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch provides a light-medium amount of tactility, catering to those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. With a gentle typing experience, the Red Panda offers a safe middle-ground zone for those looking for a balance between tactile feedback and smooth keypresses.
In conclusion, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lunar Probe prioritizes smoothness and stability, while the Red Panda focuses on providing a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, with the Lunar Probe catering to those who prefer a smoother typing experience and the Red Panda appealing to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches are unique in their own right, showcasing the diversity within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy smooth, linear keypresses with a subtle sound profile, opt for the Lunar Probe. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility with a deeper bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Red Panda is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Experiment with both switches to see which one suits your typing style best.
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