Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Lunar Probe, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch. The Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, offering users an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is known for its silent tactile switches that provide a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, all while maintaining a whisper-quiet sound profile. While the Lunar Probe is ideal for those seeking a smooth linear experience, the U4 would appeal to those looking for a tactile feedback. 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

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," that delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Lunar Probe focuses on clarity and resonance with its polycarbonate top housing, the U4 emphasizes depth and richness in sound with its unique plastic blend.

On the other hand, the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound experience when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Similarly, the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, with the Lunar Probe focusing on deeper tones from the bottom housing, while the U4 provides a rich sound profile throughout its housing material.

While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gazzew U4 differ in material, they both aim to provide a distinct sound experience for users. The use of polycarbonate in the Lunar Probe's top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the unique Gazzew blend top housing of the U4 offers a rich and deep sound profile. Similarly, the nylon and Gazzew blend bottom housings of the switches contribute to the overall sound experience, with the nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe focusing on deeper tones, and the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 providing a rich sound profile. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experiences.

Weight

The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, meaning they both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe is lighter at 50 grams compared to the U4, which is heavier at 62 grams. This means that while both switches will have a similar feel when initially typing, the Lunar Probe will provide a lighter overall typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the U4 will offer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, appealing to those who prefer heavier forces for their keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel and the level of force desired.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, it is evident that both switches offer a similar keypress experience in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. This means that you can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and feedback from both switches. It's worth noting that a shorter travel distance can result in quicker keypresses, while a longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying tactile response. In this case, both switches provide a balanced travel distance, catering to different preferences of keyboard users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a subtle and smooth experience, making it perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing session. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, catering to those who appreciate a softer and more mellow typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment.

Now, moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lunar Probe switch is known for its smooth and stable keypresses, giving users a consistent and reliable typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp and intense tactile bump, providing a distinct and satisfying feedback with each keypress. The felt-like bottom-out sensation of the U4 switch adds an extra layer of comfort and plushness to the typing experience. Overall, the U4 switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel during typing sessions.

Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lunar Probe switch focuses on providing a smooth and stable typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the U4 switch delivers a sharp tactile bump paired with a quiet and muted sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Whether you opt for the Lunar Probe or the U4, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience and provide a satisfying feel with each keypress.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch would be the perfect choice for you. However, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump with a medium bottom out force and a whisper quiet sound profile, then the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more