Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Onion mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features and benefits. The Lunar Probe from Gateron is renowned for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, providing an ultra-smooth linear typing experience with a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches from Wuque Studio boast a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, delivering a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is highly satisfying, along with a crisp and responsive typing experience and a neutral sound profile. These switches are best categorized as offering different attributes such as smoothness and consistency for the Lunar Probe, and buttery feel and responsiveness for the WS Onion. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Onion vary in terms of their top and bottom housings. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. However, the Lunar Probe uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of this material. Conversely, the WS Onion also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar effect of a rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, contrasting with the crisper sound of its polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing similarly contributes to a deeper sound profile, complementing the sharp sound produced by its polycarbonate top housing. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch.
It is important to note the impact of the different housing materials on the sound and feel of each switch. The qualities of the bottom housing material will be more prominent when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the role of each housing material in a switch can help users choose the one that best suits their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe requires 50 grams, while the WS Onion needs 63.5 grams, making it heavier. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lunar Probe may be the better option, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the WS Onion. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, catering to different preferences in typing 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, making it a shorter option compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lunar Probe is more suited for those who prefer a quicker and more responsive typing experience, such as gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the WS Onion offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches provide a neutral sound profile. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience without being too loud or distracting. The sound produced can also be influenced by the keyboard chassis, keycaps, and typing style.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches are praised for their incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, although specific descriptors are not provided. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches are characterized as offering a buttery and polished feel, providing users with a seamless and effortless typing experience. The smooth keystroke and refined finish of the WS Onion switches contribute to a satisfying feel while typing.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lunar Probe focuses on stability and consistent keypresses with a smooth linear sensation, the WS Onion emphasizes a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Keep in mind that other factors such as keycaps, typing style, and keyboard setup can also influence the overall typing feel and sound profile, ensuring that you can achieve similar results with both switches by adjusting these variables.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Lunar Probe may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the WS Onion may be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch. The Lunar Probe offers a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound, while the WS Onion provides a crisp and responsive feel with a buttery smooth keystroke and a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences for typing experience and desired keypress feel.
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