Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and Wuque Studio WS Morandi both offer linear switch experiences, but they cater to different preferences and styles. The Gateron Lunar Probe switches are celebrated for their innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable and consistent keypresses, perfect for users seeking a reliable and smooth typing experience without distraction. Additionally, the factory-lubed feel and subtle sound signature make them an appealing choice for those who prefer a quieter operation. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches stand out not only for their performance but also for their aesthetic appeal, featuring a light column that enhances RGB visuals. With the unique UPE stem, these switches deliver an airy smoothness complemented by a muted sound profile thanks to their all-POM housings, offering a “thocky” sensation that many enthusiasts appreciate. Both switches have their merits—whether you value stability and a quiet environment with the Lunar Probe or the visual flair and buttery smoothness of the WS Morandi. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches, significant differences emerge in both the top and bottom housing materials. The Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile. This characteristic stems from polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, which enhances resonance and contributes to a more vibrant auditory experience, particularly effective when RGB lighting is employed due to the material's translucency. In contrast, the WS Morandi features a POM top housing, which is designed to create a deeper and more muted sound profile. The use of POM, being less transparent and stiffer than polycarbonate, results in a sound that is more subdued and less resonant, emphasizing a softer auditory experience.
Turning attention to the bottom housing, both the Lunar Probe and WS Morandi exhibit an interesting alignment in their design philosophy. The Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing is characterized by its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that feels rounded and smooth upon activation. Similarly, the WS Morandi's POM bottom housing shares a tendency toward a muted sound profile, which also favors a deeper tone. This parallel effect in sound dampening suggests that while both switches may diverge in their top housing materials, the bottom housing's contribution to a more muted and rounder sound helps to unify their performance characteristics.
When pressing these switches, the unique contributions of each housing material influence the overall typing experience. The Lunar Probe, with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, provides a remarkably clear and resonant response that contrasts with the WS Morandi's softer, more muted auditory feedback facilitated by its POM top and bottom housings. Consequently, the interplay of materials can lead to diverse sound profiles, giving typists distinct auditory sensations based on their choice of switch. For those seeking specific sound characteristics, understanding how the combination of these materials works together can aid in selecting the ideal switch to meet individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom-out forces emerge. The Lunar Probe requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it relatively light and suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming where long-term comfort is key. In contrast, the WS Morandi switches have a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams, indicating a more substantial push feel that may appeal to users who prefer a stronger tactile feedback when typing. As a result, the Lunar Probe is the lighter option, while the WS Morandi leans towards a heavier feel. Despite these differences, both switches will provide similar results in terms of overall performance, though users may find their preferences vary based on the differences in actuation and bottom-out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, we find that the Lunar Probe has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Morandi measures at 3.5 mm. This means that if you favor a more responsive feel with quicker key presses, the WS Morandi may be the ideal choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced key action with a greater depth, the Lunar Probe's 3.6 mm travel may better suit your needs. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional options, catering to the modern trend for quicker response times, making them appealing choices for gamers and typists alike. However, the minor difference in their measurements may contribute to varied user experiences, with the Lunar Probe providing that extra millimeter for those who appreciate a deeper tactile feedback.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Lunar Probe switches to the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches, both offer a muted auditory experience, though they each have their unique characteristics. The Lunar Probe features a subtle sound signature that is likely to be on the quieter side but lacks a definitive descriptor. In contrast, the WS Morandi switches are known for their low-pitched and subdued sound, producing a dampened auditory feedback that is both deep and thocky, delivering a satisfying, rich sound with a more pronounced bass note. The combination of their all-POM housings adds to this muted profile, making the Morandi switches particularly pleasant in quieter environments while still offering a distinct sound compared to typical mechanical switches.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Lunar Probe is characterized by its incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, designed to provide consistently stable keypresses. Though specific descriptors regarding its feel were not mentioned, the emphasis on smoothness suggests a pleasant typing experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi switches shine with their airy, buttery, creamy, and silky sensations, promising an exceptionally seamless typing experience. The use of a unique UPE stem enhances this fluidity, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This combination of design and material not only ensures smooth actuation but also diminishes any resistance when pressing or releasing the keys.
In summary, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches cater to different preferences while sharing a muted auditory experience. The Lunar Probe focuses on providing a smooth, stable keypress, albeit without specific descriptors for its tactile feel, while the WS Morandi switches excel with their enhanced smoothness and richer sound profile. Regardless of your choice between these two options, you can expect a satisfying and smooth typing experience, tailored to your personal preferences, whether you're after the stability of the Lunar Probe or the creamy tactile feedback of the WS Morandi.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth, pre-lubed feel that guarantees stable and consistent keypresses, the Lunar Probe is an excellent choice, especially for extended typing sessions or gaming where quick actions are essential. Its subtle sound signature complements an environment where you may want to maintain focus without disruptive noises. On the other hand, if you're looking for a slightly heavier bottom-out force that offers a rich, thocky sound profile and an airy smoothness, the WS Morandi might be the better option. Its design not only enhances RGB visuals with its unique light column but also provides an aesthetically pleasing and satisfying typing experience with its buttery and creamy feel. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother action or a more substantial and deeper acoustic feedback in your mechanical keyboard experience.