Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gazzew U4T offer unique qualities for different preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, providing a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T excels in combining thockiness and sharp tactility, offering a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback for auditory and tactile satisfaction. While the Lunar Probe is ideal for those seeking a smooth linear switch, the U4T is perfect for individuals who appreciate a more tactile 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gazzew U4T offer distinct qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the U4T's blend has its own unique characteristics that contribute to its sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Lunar Probe features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both switches benefit from the unique qualities of their respective bottom housings, adding to the overall typing experience and sound profile.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall performance of the switches, it is important to note that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. While each switch may have different housing materials for the top and bottom, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a unique sound profile and feel for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, the differences are quite evident. The Lunar Probe has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and easy typing experience. On the other hand, the U4T offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, although the actuation force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Lunar Probe would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the U4T provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, catering to those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Lunar Probe being lighter and the U4T being heavier in terms of force required.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the U4T has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but can make a difference in typing feel and response time. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lunar Probe being on the shorter side and the U4T being on the longer side, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. Those looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe, while those who prefer a more satisfying key press may lean towards the longer travel distance of the U4T. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience and choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 switches offer a subtle sound signature, providing a quiet and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches produce a bassy 'thock' sound profile that is deep and satisfying, adding a tactile and auditory element to each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, the Lunar Probe switches would be preferred for a more discreet typing experience, while the U4T switches would be chosen for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound feedback during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches are known for their incredibly smooth linear sensation due to the dual rail mechanism, providing a consistent and stable typing experience. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T switches feature a sharp tactile bump that offers a high feedback intensity with each keypress. The U4T switches would be favored by individuals who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback during typing, whereas the Lunar Probe switches would appeal to those who prefer a smoother and more consistent typing experience without the strong tactile bump.
Overall, when considering both the sound and feel aspects of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it's evident that they offer distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Lunar Probe switches are ideal for those seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the U4T switches cater to individuals who enjoy a bassy 'thock' sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a light linear switch that guarantees stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth sensation and subtle sound profile, the Gateron Lunar Probe is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch that offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing auditory and tactile satisfaction with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, then the Gazzew U4T is the switch for you. Consider your sound and feel preferences when choosing between these two switches to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
