Gateron Lunar Probe vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Strawberry are two popular options to consider. The Gateron Lunar Probe is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses, thanks to the dual rail mechanism that ensures a smooth linear sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry stands out with its attractive pink and clear housings, providing a smooth actuation and comfortable feel. While the Lunar Probe offers a subtle sound signature, the Strawberry is known for its low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Strawberry feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting. However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing materials. The Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
The choice of housing materials in the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Strawberry results in different sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp and crisp sound, the Nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry. This difference in bottom housing materials influences the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The Lunar Probe's bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the Strawberry's top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Strawberry, both switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in the top housing. The sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile created by polycarbonate enhances the typing experience and is particularly well-suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency. While the bottom housing materials vary between the two switches, ultimately, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a more vibrant and resonant sound profile in both the Lunar Probe and the Strawberry.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe requires 50 grams while the Strawberry needs a heavier 62 grams. The Lunar Probe offers a lighter typing experience with a smoother keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a heavier keystroke. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide different typing experiences based on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Lunar Probe is shorter than the Strawberry switch. The 3.6 mm distance of the Lunar Probe falls within the category of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Strawberry switch provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers a subtle sound signature, providing a satisfyingly quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Depending on personal preference, the Lunar Probe may be favored for its quieter sound profile, while the Strawberry may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper and more resonant typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. The switch provides a seamless and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and comfortable feel. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the Strawberry may excel in providing a luxurious and refined typing sensation with reduced friction.
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and KTT Strawberry switches offer a smooth and stable typing experience with different sound profiles and tactile feels. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can be a great choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Since both switches are known for their smoothness and consistency, users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to individual preferences for sound and feel, making it important for newcomers to try out different switches to find the perfect match for their typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the bottom out force you prefer. The Lunar Probe offers a lighter 50-gram bottom out force, while the Strawberry has a slightly heavier 62-gram bottom out force. If you prioritize stability and consistency in your keypresses, along with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, the Lunar Probe may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a comfortable feel, smooth actuation, and reliable performance, the Strawberry with its attractive pink and clear housings could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound.
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