Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can significantly impact not only the feel of each keypress but also the overall typing experience. Comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, both linear switches, provides insight into two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe is known for its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stability and consistency with every keystroke, offering an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation coupled with a subtle sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie stands out with its medium-weight all-POM construction, providing a satisfying thocky sound alongside exceptional smoothness, appealing to users who enjoy tactile feedback without sacrificing a fluid keystroke. Both switches have their unique advantages: the Lunar Probe for its stability and quiet operation, and the Sea Salt Smoothie for its rich sound and affordability. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie are key elements in defining their respective sound profiles. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound. This material's stiffness contributes to a brighter auditory experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more resonant sound when using RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie's top housing is made of POM, which offers a distinctly muted sound profile that leans towards deeper tones. This contrast illustrates how the choice of material can significantly affect the auditory feedback experienced during typing.
When looking at the bottom housings, both switches utilize different materials, with the Lunar Probe utilizing nylon while the Sea Salt Smoothie's bottom housing is also POM. The nylon in the Lunar Probe contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer plastic construction, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives. Conversely, the POM bottom housing in the Sea Salt Smoothie shares this deeper sound quality but may provide a unique auditory experience due to the inherent properties of the material. This differentiation in the bottom housing material adds additional complexity to how they feel during operation, with nylon offering a particular roundness that may resonate with users seeking a softer bottom-out experience.
Despite these differences in materials, both switches can produce satisfying auditory feedback that appeals to a range of preferences. The top housing materials primarily influence the sound produced when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottoming-out experience. Therefore, while users can anticipate distinct characteristics from each switch due to their unique materials, both the Lunar Probe and Sea Salt Smoothie can deliver pleasant typing experiences that reflect their respective sound profiles. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials create a rich diversity in sound that enhances user interaction, ensuring that both switches meet various tactile and auditory expectations.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lunar Probe features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that is suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming, as it requires less effort to press down. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a higher actuation force of 48 grams, suggesting that it provides a slightly heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie is listed as unknown, leaving uncertainty about its performance when pressed all the way down. Overall, those who favor a lighter switch should lean towards the Lunar Probe, while users seeking a firmer feel might opt for the Sea Salt Smoothie, though the exact bottom out experience remains a mystery.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches, we find that the Lunar Probe features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Lunar Probe is the shorter of the two switches, making it potentially more appealing for gamers who prefer faster response times due to the reduced travel distance. On the other hand, those who favor a deeper, more substantial feeling when pressing keys may appreciate the Sea Salt Smoothie's longer 3.7 mm travel distance, as it offers a more rounded tactile experience. In summary, for a more responsive option, the Lunar Probe is optimal, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced key press.
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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 features a subtle sound signature that makes it relatively quiet during use, allowing for a more subdued typing experience. This can be particularly beneficial in shared workspaces or quiet environments. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch produces a thocky sound profile, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback that some users may find satisfying and rewarding while typing. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the overall sound profile of each switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycaps, meaning that personal preferences and setups will play a significant role in your experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe is highly regarded for its incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, thanks to Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. This results in a luxurious typing experience that many users find enjoyable for both gaming and typing alike. In comparison, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers exceptional smoothness as well, particularly due to its POM (polyoxymethylene) construction, which is known for its low friction and durability, making each keystroke feel crisp and responsive. While the feeling of the Lunar Probe is enhanced by its pre-lubing, the Sea Salt Smoothie provides its own charm with the unique tactile experience of POM.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches present compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, though they do cater to slightly different preferences. The Lunar Probe excels in offering a smooth and quiet typing experience, ideal for environments that require discretion, while the Sea Salt Smoothie delights with its thocky sound and high-quality feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, but either way, you'll be rewarded with a quality experience and exceptional performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, your choice largely hinges on your preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter touch with a stable and consistent keypress, the Lunar Probe is an excellent option due to its low bottom-out force of 50 grams, coupled with a smooth and subtle sound signature created by its innovative dual rail mechanism. This makes it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort and reduced finger fatigue are paramount. On the other hand, if you are attracted to a richer auditory experience while maintaining a smooth feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie could be your preferred choice. Known for its thocky sound profile and medium weight, this switch offers a delightful combination of quality audio feedback and solid performance that enhances your overall typing enjoyment. Ultimately, your selection should reflect whether you prioritize a lighter, whisper-quiet experience or a more robust sonic engagement in your mechanical keyboard journey.
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