Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer distinct performances catering to unique preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe is celebrated for its smooth, pre-lubed linear action and stable keypress experience, thanks to its innovative dual rail mechanism. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and fast typists seeking seamless keystrokes with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) stands out with its hall effect design, delivering a satisfying "thock" sound that appeals to enthusiasts while offering a refined tactile sensation. With a dustproof stem that reduces wobble, this switch provides a balanced typing experience ideal for those who appreciate both auditory feedback and a smooth keystroke. Each switch brings its own advantages to the table: the Lunar Probe for ultralight, quick strokes, and the Sticky Rice for a nuanced 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it becomes evident that both switches utilize identical materials for their top housing—polycarbonate. This shared material choice means both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant audio experience, making it a popular choice for clear top housings that allow for effective diffusion of RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of both switches when backlighting is involved, providing a uniform glow that adds to the aesthetic appeal of a keyboard.
On the other hand, both the Lunar Probe and the Sticky Rice (V2) use nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a distinctly deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer characteristics lead to sound absorption, creating a more muted and rounded auditory response upon key presses. Whereas the polycarbonate top housing primarily influences the sound produced when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing plays a key role in shaping the feedback felt when bottoming out. This combination allows both switches to produce a well-rounded typing experience that balances sharp clarity with lush depth.
In summary, while the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) are comprised of the same materials, their unique contributions culminate in a notable typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing helps achieve a bright sound signature, which is complemented by the nylon's ability to create a fuller auditory profile from the bottom housing. This synergistic combination means that, despite being distinct switches, the Lunar Probe and Sticky Rice (V2) can yield similarly satisfying results, allowing users to enjoy a versatile aesthetic and acoustic experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both switches feature similar bottom out forces at 50 grams, indicating they provide a consistent tactile feedback when fully pressed. However, the actuation forces differ slightly, with the Lunar Probe requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke compared to the Sticky Rice (V2)'s lighter 40 grams. This means that the Everglide switch is easier to press and may be more suited for users who prioritize longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Lunar Probe's marginally heavier actuation force can deliver a stronger push feel, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Sticky Rice (V2) is the lighter option, making it potentially more comfortable for extended use, while the Lunar Probe may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Lunar Probe features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Lunar Probe offers a deeper pressing experience, which some users may find more satisfying and substantial. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for a faster actuation. While both switches are relatively close in their travel distances, the Lunar Probe provides that extra millimeter, making it the longer option and potentially offering a more cushioned feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is subtle, aiming for a low-key acoustic experience that aligns with its smooth character. The evenness in sound adds to a serene typing atmosphere, making it suitable for both quiet environments and prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has a neutral sound signature that leans towards the pleasing "thock" favored by enthusiasts. While the Lunar Probe is on the quieter side, the Sticky Rice offers more auditory depth, making it appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback while typing. It's essential to remember that the overall sound can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Gateron Lunar Probe is recognized for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear operation, which ensures that each keystroke feels consistent and refined. It's particularly well-suited for those who favor a flawless linear typing experience without any tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) combines a super smooth keystroke with a design that minimizes wobble, thus enhancing its overall performance. While the Sticky Rice also provides a refined tactile sensation, it offers users a balanced experience that merges smooth action with a hint of texture, appealing to those who might enjoy slight feedback without transitioning to a tactile switch.
In summary, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present unique qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Lunar Probe excels in creating a quiet, smooth typing experience, ideal for users who appreciate understated feedback, while the Sticky Rice (V2) combines smoothness with a richer auditory depth, attracting enthusiasts who relish the "thock" sound. Ultimately, both switches promise high-quality performance, and the best choice will depend on individual taste in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth, consistent keystroke with a slightly subdued sound, the Lunar Probe might be the ideal option for you. Its dual rail mechanism ensures stability, making it great for fast-paced typing and gaming; you can enjoy the pleasant experience of pre-lubed switches that require minimal maintenance. On the other hand, if you seek a more tactile sensation and appreciate a satisfying “thock” with each keystroke, the Sticky Rice (V2) could be the better choice. Its dustproof design enhances performance and delivers a refined feel without excess wobble. Consider the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard—whether you need a stealthy typing experience or something more pronounced—and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences. In summary, both switches offer a fantastic experience, so it all comes down to whether you lean more towards enhanced smoothness or a refined tactile feedback.
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