Gateron Lunar Probe vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two exceptional linear options. The Lunar Probe boasts Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, providing a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Tangerine offers an incredibly smooth typing experience with UHWMPE housings, a rare feature in bespoke switches, but comes with a fairly high-pitched clack sound. While both switches offer a frictionless and buttery feel, the Tangerine stands out for its polished finish. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preferences and typing styles. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and TKC Tangerine both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. While the Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, the Tangerine boasts a UHWMPE top housing, offering a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Both materials have their own distinct characteristics that influence the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Lunar Probe's top housing makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. This contrasts with the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing, which also offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Despite both switches using different materials for their bottom housing, they each contribute to the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The impact of the housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel is more prominent with the bottom housing, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and TKC Tangerine play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provide a mix of sharp, high-pitched sounds and deeper, fuller tones, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top and bottom houses offer a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Both switches showcase how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, whether through the sound produced or the feel of pressing down on a key. Ultimately, users can expect a unique typing experience from each switch based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Lunar Probe has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Tangerine, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Tangerine is heavier at 62 grams while the Lunar Probe is lighter at 50 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Lunar Probe for its lower actuation and bottom out forces, which can be more conducive for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Tangerine's heavier bottom out force may appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we can see that the Lunar Probe has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Tangerine has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Lunar Probe has a shorter travel distance compared to the Tangerine. The 3.6mm travel distance of the Lunar Probe may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter distance for actuation. On the other hand, the 4mm travel distance of the Tangerine may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and TKC Tangerine switches offer a premium linear typing experience. The Lunar Probe switch is known for its stable keypresses and smooth linear feel, while the Tangerine switch stands out for its ultra-smooth UHWMPE housings. In terms of sound, the Lunar Probe has a subtle sound signature, while the Tangerine emits a high-pitched clack that may appeal to those who prefer a crisper sound. When it comes to feel, the Lunar Probe's exact description is unknown, but the Tangerine switch is praised for its frictionless, buttery, and polished typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer exceptional smoothness and consistent keypresses, so choosing between the two will likely come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the following recommendations based on your preferences. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a stable keypress experience, the Lunar Probe may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors such as bottom out force, keypress stability, typing smoothness, sound profile, and personal preferences matter most to you.
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