Gateron Lunar Probe vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, you are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe is praised for its smooth and stable keypresses, providing a quiet and linear typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a satisfying level of tactile feedback with minimal noise, making it ideal for those working in shared environments. Both switches have their strengths, with the Lunar Probe focusing on smoothness and consistency, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) prioritizes tactility and quiet operation. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making polycarbonate ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lunar Probe uses nylon while the Silent Bluish White (V2) also utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the same top housing material of polycarbonate, the Gateron Lunar Probe and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The split between nylon and polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch. The bottom housing, responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, will showcase the qualities of nylon with its deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing will play a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released, reflecting the characteristics of polycarbonate with its sharper and crisper sound.
Both switches highlight the importance of housing materials in creating a distinct sound profile for mechanical keyboards. While the Lunar Probe and Silent Bluish White (V2) use similar materials for their top housings, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. Polycarbonate allows for a more resonant and clear sound, particularly suited for RGB lighting, while nylon absorbs sound for a deeper and fuller typing experience. Ultimately, the combination of these materials in the top and bottom housings determines the overall sound and feel of each switch for a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a relatively light actuation force, with the Lunar Probe requiring 45 grams and the Silent Bluish White (V2) requiring 42 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, both switches have the same force of 50 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find both of these switches to be suitable options. The Lunar Probe may be slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, but the difference is minimal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the typing experience users are seeking.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. The Lunar Probe has a slightly longer travel distance, making it slightly more responsive than the Silent Bluish White (V2). Gamers may prefer the Lunar Probe for its slightly faster response time. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Silent Bluish White (V2) may be the better option due to its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so both can provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 offers a subtle sound signature that is not overly loud, allowing for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is specifically designed to be as quiet as possible, with a muted sound profile that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on your choice of board and keycaps, both switches can provide a relatively quiet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and stable typing experience. In comparison, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches offer a medium level of tactility, giving a satisfying amount of resistance when pressed. The feel of the Silent Bluish Whites is often described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke with a gentle resistance and reduced friction for a comfortable typing feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide quiet typing experiences suitable for shared work or living spaces. Whether you prefer a smooth linear sensation with subtle sound or a medium tactile feel with a muted sound profile, both switches can offer a satisfying and comfortable typing experience depending on your personal preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to your individual typing style and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and consistent linear feel with a subtle sound, the Lunar Probe may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium tactility and a quieter typing experience suitable for shared spaces, the Silent Bluish White (V2) could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should come down to the type of typing sensation and noise level that best suits your personal preferences and environment.
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