Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch present distinctive features for consideration. The Lunar Probe switch stands out for its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing stable and consistent keypresses with a subtle sound signature. In contrast, the WS Brown switch offers a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. While the Lunar Probe emphasizes a sleek and linear typing experience, the WS Brown focuses on an elegant tactile feel with a familiar auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Brown both use different materials for their top and bottom housing components. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the WS Brown uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the WS Brown's nylon top housing offers a classic look.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Lunar Probe and the WS Brown utilize nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing, users can expect a more muted sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Overall, the differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings of the Lunar Probe and WS Brown may differ in material, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The top housing is more impactful on the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Despite these differences, users can expect a similar level of quality and performance from both switches, with the Lunar Probe offering a sharper, crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, and the WS Brown providing a deeper, fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch boasts a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Lunar Probe. The actuation force for the WS Brown is unknown, but it provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the Lunar Probe. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the WS Brown, while individuals who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Lunar Probe for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. This means that the Lunar Probe offers a slightly shorter key travel distance compared to the WS Brown. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market. Gamers may prefer the Lunar Probe for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may prefer the WS Brown with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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 linear switch is often praised for its subtle and smooth sound signature, making it a popular choice among those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch offers a familiar and delightful auditory experience, thanks to its nylon housing and POM stem combination. Both switches provide a satisfying sound profile, with the Lunar Probe leaning towards a quieter experience, while the WS Brown offers a more familiar typing sound for enthusiasts.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and stable typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it a great option for fatigue-free typing during long sessions. While the Lunar Probe offers a linear typing experience, the WS Brown provides a tactile response that many users appreciate for its familiar and comfortable feel.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel aspects of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a quieter typing experience with stable keypresses like the Lunar Probe, or a tactile switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort like the WS Brown, both switches provide excellent options depending on your personal typing style and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Lunar Probe and WS Brown switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for keypress stability and smoothness. If you value a light bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a linear typing experience with a subtle sound profile, then the Lunar Probe switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams and appreciate a tactile typing experience that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, then the WS Brown switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard experience.
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