Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, along with its smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue is praised for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience with its lengthened single-stage spring that offers a bouncy feel. While the Lunar Probe is best for those seeking a smooth and stable typing experience, the Tourmaline Blue appeals to users looking for a satisfying and immersive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, one noticeable similarity is that they both feature a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Lunar Probe uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Tourmaline Blue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and more resonant sound profile.

The contrasting properties of the nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue showcase how different materials can impact the sound profile of the switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, while the stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and sharper sound. This means that the bottom housing will greatly affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. These distinctions demonstrate how housing materials can play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.

While the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue may vary in their bottom housing composition, both switches aim to provide an optimal typing experience through their unique sound profiles. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the crisper and resonant sound of polycarbonate, each material brings its own qualities to the table. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as well as any aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.

Weight

The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe requires 50 grams of force, while the Tourmaline Blue needs 67 grams. The Lunar Probe's forces are on the lighter side, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits, as lighter switches are better for prolonged use, while heavier switches offer a more tactile typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lunar Probe offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, appealing to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may feel more satisfying to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences among users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is known for its subtle sound signature, providing a quiet typing experience that is ideal for those looking for a more discreet option. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile that immerses users in a satisfying typing experience. The choice between these two switches would depend on whether you prefer a quieter typing experience or enjoy the auditory feedback provided by the Tourmaline Blue switch.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is recognized for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, offering a consistent and stable typing experience. As for the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it features a lengthened single-stage spring that provides a bouncy feel with each keystroke. Additionally, the Tourmaline Blue switch boasts a standard spring weight, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of users. The decision between these two switches would be influenced by whether you prefer a smoother typing experience or enjoy a bouncy feel with your keystrokes.

Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience and smooth keystrokes, the Lunar Probe may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and bouncy feel with your keystrokes and prefer a deeper sound profile, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches, consider your preference for actuation force. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, the Lunar Probe with its 50-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, the Tourmaline Blue with its 67-gram bottom out force may be a better choice. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel characteristics of each switch. The Lunar Probe offers a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, while the Tourmaline Blue provides a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more