Gateron Lunar Probe vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe is renowned for its stable and consistent keypresses due to its dual rail mechanism, providing a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the TTC Venus showcases an internal configuration that delivers a seamless glide and a matte sensation, making each press smooth and engaging with a light actuation for rapid typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Venus differ in terms of the top and bottom housings. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Venus has a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles gives each switch a unique auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the contrary, the Venus has a polycarbonate bottom housing, which mirrors the characteristics of its top housing - creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The difference in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience on each switch, providing users with distinct tactile and auditory feedback.
When comparing the two switches, it's evident that the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and feel of the switches. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique blend of characteristics in each switch. While the Lunar Probe offers a mix of polycarbonate and nylon for a varied sound experience, the Venus maintains consistency in its sharp and crisp sound due to both housings being made of polycarbonate. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force differs slightly between the two switches. The Lunar Probe has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option, while the Venus has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it slightly heavier. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lunar Probe, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Venus switch offers a bit more resistance, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Venus switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe switch. The Lunar Probe switch may result in a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which could be beneficial for gamers who require fast and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Venus switch may provide a more traditional and deeper typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend 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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its subtle sound signature, providing a quiet and serene typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound profile that envelops each keystroke in a soft auditory embrace. Both switches aim to minimize noise and provide a more subdued typing experience, catering to those who prefer a quieter keyboard. With these qualities in mind, users can expect similar results in terms of sound, with both switches offering a pleasant and mellow tone when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch boasts an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch offers a unique "matte" sensation, combining a nearly frictionless glide with a springy resistance reminiscent of biting into a chewy mochi. Both switches provide a smooth and engaging typing experience, with the Lunar Probe emphasizing stability and consistency, while the Venus showcases a delightful balance between smoothness and engaging resistance.
Overall, the Gateron Lunar Probe and TTC Venus switches both excel in providing a high-quality typing experience with their unique features. While the Lunar Probe focuses on stable and consistent keypresses with a subtle sound signature, the Venus offers a unique "matte" sensation paired with a low-pitched and muted sound profile. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a smooth, quiet, and engaging typing experience, making them excellent choices for those who prioritize performance and comfort in their mechanical keyboards. Whether choosing the Lunar Probe or Venus switch, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a stable and consistent keypress, and a subtle sound signature, the Gateron Lunar Probe may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a slightly higher bottom out force, a unique "Q-texture" feel with a smooth and engaging typing experience, and a muted sound signature, the TTC Venus could be the perfect match for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style when making your decision.
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