Gateron Lunar Probe vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Rose offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses thanks to its dual rail mechanism, providing a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Rose stands out for its progressive springs, offering a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a pleasant sound signature resembling bassy raindrops. While the Lunar Probe excels in providing a consistent linear feel, the Rose switches offer a more nuanced and polished 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Rose feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
Despite both switches having similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials can affect the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on bottom-out sound and feel, will be felt more when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distribution allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the benefits of both polycarbonate and nylon materials in each switch.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Rose share housing materials in their design, the distribution of these materials within the switch can lead to slightly different typing experiences. Both switches offer the sharp and crisp sound profile of polycarbonate in the top housing, along with the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon in the bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Lunar Probe has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Rose's actuation force is unknown and it has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lunar Probe may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Rose provides a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their force characteristics, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Rose linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lunar Probe provides a slightly shallower keypress compared to the Rose, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Rose switch offers a slightly deeper keypress that may feel more substantial to some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and response time.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 is known for its subtle sound signature, providing a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Lunar Probe being quieter and the Rose having a deeper tone. Ultimately, your choice between the two would depend on whether you prefer a quieter typing experience or enjoy the bassy raindrop sound of the Rose switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is praised for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and stable keypress experience. The KTT Rose linear switch, on the other hand, offers a unique typing experience with progressive springs, giving a substantial yet not heavy feel when typing. The Lunar Probe switch offers a smooth and refined typing experience, while the Rose switch provides a gentle and polished feel. Both switches fall within the medium actuation force range, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and KTT Rose linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lunar Probe provides a smooth and stable typing experience with a subtle sound, while the Rose switch offers a more bass-heavy tone with a unique typing feel due to its progressive springs. While the sound and feel of these switches differ slightly, both are excellent choices for users seeking a linear switch option. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, consider your preferences for keypress force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, pre-lubed linear typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique typing experience with progressive springs that offer a bassy raindrop sound profile, the KTT Rose switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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