Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Durock Sea Glass both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe switch from Gateron is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses thanks to the dual rail mechanism, providing an incredibly smooth linear sensation that is pre-lubed for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series from Durock stands out with its captivating pastel colors and proprietary material blend that gives it a distinct dry, wispy, and airy typing feel. Despite a 62g bottom-out force, the Sea Glass switches maintain a weightless quality and produce a uniquely hollow sound signature. Both switches have their strengths and appeal, making them worthy contenders for those seeking a specific 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Durock Sea Glass offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and crisp sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to a clear and resonant tone. On the other hand, the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant and brighter sound profile, showcasing a distinct difference in sound characteristics. While both materials excel in providing unique sound profiles, the choice between polycarbonate and the blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE ultimately comes down to personal preference.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Lunar Probe utilizes nylon, which offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Sea Glass's blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the Sea Glass's unique blend provides a sound profile that leans towards the brighter side, offering a different typing experience. While both housing materials bring their own unique qualities to the switches, the choice between nylon and the blend of polymer and UHMWPE will depend on the sound profile that the user prefers.
Overall, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. The contrast between the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe and the blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE top housing of the Sea Glass highlights the diversity in sound characteristics that different materials can offer. Whether one prefers a sharp and crisp sound profile or a more pleasant and brighter tone, the choice between these housing materials will ultimately impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, understanding the qualities each housing material brings to the switch can help users make an informed decision based on their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Lunar Probe has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Sea Glass's heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This difference in bottom out force means that the Sea Glass provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Lunar Probe is lighter and may be more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Sea Glass has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be noticeable to users who prefer a more responsive key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for the specific feel and depth of key press that each user prefers.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 Lunar Probe switch is known for its subtle sound signature, creating a quiet typing experience that is suitable for work environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch produces a uniquely hollow sound, adding an extra layer of auditory feedback to your typing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on your preference for noise level and sound quality.
When it comes to feel, the Lunar Probe switch is praised for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch is described as frictionless, offering a light and effortless typing feel that minimizes resistance and fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Sea Glass switch also boasts a mild and feathery touch, making it comfortable for various typing tasks like gaming, work, or school. Both switches offer a smooth and responsive typing experience, with the Sea Glass switch emphasizing lightness and ease of use.
Overall, the Gateron Lunar Probe and Durock Sea Glass switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Lunar Probe switch focuses on smoothness and consistency, the Sea Glass switch prioritizes lightness and frictionless typing. Depending on your preference for typing experience, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable feeling while typing. Whether you choose the Lunar Probe for its stable keypresses or the Sea Glass for its weightless nature, you can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Lunar Probe with 50 grams may be more suited to your typing style. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Sea Glass with 62 grams could be a better fit. Additionally, consider the typing experience you are looking for - whether you prefer the smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation of the Lunar Probe or the distinct dryness and airiness of the Sea Glass. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for keypress stability, sound signature, and typing feel.
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