Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Lunar Probe is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses, thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, providing a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stands out for its medium-high level of tactility, achieved through a long, two-staged spring design, resulting in deep and resonating thocks while typing. The Lunar Probe is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth keystroke, while the Shadow switch appeals to those seeking a more tactile 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances the switch's overall sound but with a sharper tone.
The choice of housing materials in switches can significantly impact their sound profiles and overall typing experience. While both the Lunar Probe and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe provides a softer and more absorbing surface, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound, enhancing the overall clarity and resonance of the switch.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's essential to recognize how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, with the nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe offering a distinct typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, with polycarbonate top housings contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile in both switches. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in switches can greatly influence the typing feel and sound, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch differ in terms of weight. The Lunar Probe has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While the Lunar Probe offers a lighter typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a heavier one. Both switches offer a satisfactory typing experience based on personal preference, with the Lunar Probe being lighter and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring being heavier.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lunar Probe offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast inputs. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more substantial keypress depth with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Lunar Probe being the shorter option and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring being the longer option.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 provides a subtle and smooth typing experience with a quiet sound signature. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Lunar Probe offering a more understated sound while the Shadow switch provides a more pronounced and percussive typing noise.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is known for its smooth and consistent keypresses, but specific descriptors are not provided. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback. This means that the Shadow switch provides a more tactile and responsive typing experience compared to the Lunar Probe switch. If you prefer a switch with a strong tactile bump and lively feel, the Shadow switch would be the better choice.
Overall, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Lunar Probe switch is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, while the Shadow switch caters to individuals seeking a more tactile and pronounced typing feel with a clacky sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy smooth linear keystrokes with a subtle sound, the Lunar Probe switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and crave a tactile switch with a high level of tactility and deep thocks, then the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Take into account these factors to ensure that you choose the switch that best suits your keyboard needs.
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