Gateron Lunar Probe vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two prominent options that stand out are the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, both linear switches but with distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Lunar Probe is celebrated for its innovative dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses that create an incredibly smooth typing experience. This pre-lubed switch not only enhances comfort but also offers a subtle sound signature that appeals to users seeking a minimalistic auditory profile. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g is designed for those who value a quiet typing experience, providing a gentle yet satisfying keystroke thanks to its perfectly balanced 53g bottom-out force. This switch is ideal for typists who desire a tactile sensation reminiscent of raindrops tapping against a window, making it a great choice for quiet environments. Both switches have their unique advantages depending on what you prioritize—smoothness and stability or quietness and a lighter keystroke feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g utilize contrasting materials for their top and bottom housing components, leading to distinct auditory and tactile characteristics in their performance. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This quality can enhance the clarity and resonance of typing sounds, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a vivid auditory feedback during use. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g incorporates a nylon top housing that yields a deeper, fuller sound profile. Being a softer material, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a muted, rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in sound production highlights how the choice of material significantly influences the user experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches showcase an interesting swap in materials; the Lunar Probe utilizes nylon and the Silent Sakura - 53g employs polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe further enhances the deeper, fuller sound profile already established by its top housing, thereby creating a cohesive auditory experience that softens the impact of bottoming out. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Sakura - 53g contributes to a higher-pitched and clearer sound, reinforcing the sharper characteristics that the polycarbonate top offers. This disparity between the sound profiles of the housing materials highlights the complexity of acoustic performance in mechanical switches; the interaction between the different materials in each switch creates unique audio signatures that users may prefer based on their typing style and sound preferences.
Ultimately, if users were to evaluate the overall performance of these switches despite their differing top and bottom housing materials, they would find that each offers a multi-faceted auditory experience. With the Lunar Probe, the combined effects of a crisp top and a rounded bottom create a distinct and harmonious sound profile that appeals to those who appreciate clarity with warmth. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura - 53g delivers a unique contrast, marrying the clear, resonant sounds of polycarbonate with the absorbing qualities of nylon in its architecture. Users looking for specific auditory feedback will likely find joy in either switch; the choice boils down to personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, while the switches consist of differing materials, the top and bottom housing interplay draws them together, facilitating similar results in diverse sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing similar typing responsiveness and ease of activation. However, the bottom out force varies between the two; the Lunar Probe has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Sakura's is slightly heavier at 53 grams. This difference means that while both switches trigger with the same light initial force, the HMX Silent Sakura requires a bit more force to fully depress, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer it. In terms of weight, the Lunar Probe is the lighter option overall due to its lower bottom out force, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Silent Sakura, with its heavier bottom out, may appeal more to users who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that for users who favor responsiveness and quicker key presses, the Lunar Probe offers a shorter distance, potentially allowing for faster response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers. Conversely, the Silent Sakura, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a more substantial depth that some users may find more satisfying and comfortable for typing. If you prefer a switch with a hearty feel, you might lean towards the Silent Sakura. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, as the Lunar Probe is shorter, while the Silent Sakura is longer, providing distinct tactile experiences.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50 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
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch boasts a subtle sound signature, primarily due to its innovative dual rail mechanism that stabilizes keypresses and contributes to a less intrusive typing experience. This quality allows it to blend into an environment without causing distraction, making it appealing for both office use and quiet settings. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered specifically for a whisper-quiet typing experience, characterized by a sound reminiscent of gentle raindrops. While both switches strive for a low-noise profile, the Silent Sakura is likely to be quieter overall, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing silence in their typing environment.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe provides an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation that enhances the overall typing experience, promising a seamless transition between keypresses and a highly reliable performance. The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g features a balanced 53g bottom-out force that caters to typists who prefer a light yet satisfying keystroke, making it easy to type for extended periods without fatigue. Both switches deliver a linear feel that minimizes tactile feedback, favoring a smooth and uninterrupted motion. As a result, both would offer a satisfactory typing experience, though the specific weight and force might influence personal preference.
Collectively, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches cater to specific needs within the realm of mechanical keyboards. The Lunar Probe emphasizes stability and a smooth typing experience with a subtle sound profile, while the Silent Sakura targets those who favor an ultra-quiet environment without sacrificing the satisfaction of a light keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between them could depend on your primary use case, whether it’s for a peaceful work environment or a smooth and consistent typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch primarily depends on your typing style and environment. If you prefer a smooth and responsive keypress with a lighter feel, the Lunar Probe is an excellent choice, thanks to its 50-gram bottom-out force and stable dual rail mechanism. This makes it perfect for fast-paced gaming or for those who enjoy the satisfying sensation of rapid typing without the heaviness of a higher actuation force. On the other hand, if you often find yourself typing in quiet environments, such as libraries or shared workspaces, the Silent Sakura - 53g would be more suitable with its 53-gram bottom-out force and whisper-quiet operation, allowing you to type comfortably without disturbing others. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your personal preference for feedback and sound. Consider what you value more in your typing experience—speed and smoothness or quietness and a touch of resistance—and select the switch that aligns with your needs.
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