Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Type A 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 Gateron Type A both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe is renowned for its dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses, while also providing a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its innovative approach to travel distances and factory lubing techniques, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound profile. While these general pointers can help in making a decision, it's important to delve deeper into the specifics to determine which switch best suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Type A, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite their similarities in bottom housing material, the switches may still have unique characteristics based on the other housing components.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Lunar Probe and Type A switches differ, with the Lunar Probe featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Type A utilizing a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, typing on switches with nylon top housings like the Type A will produce a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This distinction in top housing materials will result in varied sound profiles and typing experiences for users of each switch.
In instances where a switch has different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings of the Lunar Probe and Type A switches, respectively, will create distinct typing experiences for users, with differences in sound profiles and overall feel.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch. The Lunar Probe requires 45 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Type A requires 50 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the lighter weight category, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Those who prefer a slightly lighter feel may lean towards the Lunar Probe, while those who prefer a bit more resistance might opt for the Type A. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with subtle differences in the amount of force required.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type A switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe switch. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Lunar Probe falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Type A switch provides a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is often praised for its subtle sound signature, providing a satisfyingly quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, falling somewhere in the middle in terms of sound intensity. Both switches offer a pleasant typing sound, with the Lunar Probe being slightly more subdued compared to the Type A. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe is celebrated for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring consistent and stable keypresses. While the specifics of the feel of the Type A linear switch are not provided, it is highlighted for its innovative design focusing on travel distances and factory lubing techniques. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Lunar Probe emphasizing smoothness and consistency, and the Type A potentially providing a balance between tactile feedback and comfort.
In conclusion, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch each offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lunar Probe excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience with its pre-lubed linear sensation, while the Type A may offer a balance between sound intensity and tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can deliver satisfying results for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches and setups can help in finding the perfect match for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force and sound profiles. The Lunar Probe with a bottom out force of 50 grams is lighter than the Type A which has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. If you are drawn to a more stable and consistent keypress experience with a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, the Lunar Probe is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch with a medium-weight feel and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Type A may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing experience and sound preferences.
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