Gateron Lunar Probe vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the SP-Star Duck 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 SP-Star Duck offer unique experiences worth considering. The Gateron Lunar Probe is a linear switch that prides itself on stability and consistency with its innovative dual rail mechanism. Typing on these switches provides an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed sensation, accompanied by a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility and clean sound profile, offering a more subtle typing experience. While the Lunar Probe focuses on smoothness and consistency, the Duck prioritizes a gentle tactile feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the SP-Star Duck, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to polycarbonate's stiffness that creates clear and resonant acoustics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. However, while both switches share this common feature, the Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Lunar Probe and the SP-Star Duck significantly impacts the sound and feel of typing on these switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a softer and more resonant feel. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, creating a clearer and more defined typing experience. This distinction showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can greatly influence the overall sound and feel of a switch, catering to different preferences based on individual typing preferences.
Furthermore, the split between the top and bottom housing materials of a switch demonstrates how each component contributes uniquely to the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This split in material qualities allows for a dynamic typing experience that incorporates the best attributes of both housing materials. Ultimately, whether utilizing polycarbonate or nylon in the housing design, both the Lunar Probe and the SP-Star Duck offer a customized typing experience that caters to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is 45 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Lunar Probe requires 50 grams, while the Duck needs 58 grams, making the latter slightly heavier. In general, a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing periods and is preferred for work or gaming keyboards. On the other hand, a heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Lunar Probe and the Duck will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Duck has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Lunar Probe's 3.6 mm. The Duck offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which some may find more substantial and satisfying. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe provides a slightly shorter travel distance, ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Duck offering a longer travel distance for a more pronounced feel, while the Lunar Probe provides a shorter travel distance for a faster response. Both switches offer unique benefits, catering to different user preferences for typing or gaming 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 linear switch offers a subtle sound signature, enhancing the overall typing experience with a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a clean and crispy sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more gentle tactile typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasant typing sound that is not overly loud or distracting, allowing for a satisfying auditory feedback without being disruptive in quieter environments.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Lunar Probe is known for its incredibly smooth and stable keypresses due to its dual rail mechanism. While specific details on the feel of the Duck switch are not available, it is described as offering a mild typing experience with a gentle tactility. The Duck switch is also noted for its buttery and polished qualities, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation that is approachable to most users.
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lunar Probe excels in providing a stable and consistent linear typing experience with a subtle sound profile, while the Duck switch offers a gentle tactile feel with a clean and crispy sound. Depending on your preferences for typing feel and sound, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience that suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can deliver similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and consistent linear feel with a light bottom out force, the Lunar Probe may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Duck switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for keypress feel and sound profile. Experimenting with both switches may give you a better idea of which one suits your typing style best.
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