Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both present compelling options within the linear switch category, yet they offer distinct experiences that can appeal to different preferences. The Gateron Lunar Probe is celebrated for its innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable and consistent keypresses, coupled with an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed feel and a subtle sound that makes it an excellent choice for those seeking quiet yet responsive keystrokes. In contrast, the WS POM+ stands out for its unique all-POM construction, delivering a rich "thock" sound signature accompanied by a buttery-smooth keystroke, appealing to typists who enjoy auditory feedback with each press. While both switches boast a linear design that minimizes tactile bumps, their individual characteristics cater to different ergonomic and sensory needs. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches present distinct characteristics that significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a higher-pitched, crisper sound and enhanced clarity, particularly desirable for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. This is largely due to polycarbonate's rigidity as a plastic, which allows the sound to resonate more effectively. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, delivering a deeper sound profile that is relatively muted, promoting a softer typing experience. While both switches can support RGB lighting due to their translucency, the auditory experience will differ significantly due to the properties of the materials used.
When analyzing the bottom housings, the Lunar Probe employs a nylon material, known for its classic qualities that yield a fuller, deeper sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound better than harder plastics, leading to a more rounded auditory experience on bottoming out. Conversely, the WS POM+ maintains consistency with POM material for its bottom housing as well, producing a unique sound profile that, similar to the top, favors a muted resonance. This means both switches exhibit deeper sounds, but the Gateron Lunar Probe allows users to experience a blend of nylon's sound-absorbing qualities with the sharper notes from the polycarbonate top.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch means that users will encounter varied tactile experiences and auditory feedback. In the Lunar Probe, the nylon bottom contributes to a more dynamic sound profile by reducing harshness and adding depth, while the polycarbonate top elevates the crispness of sounds generated when a key is released. The WS POM+, with both top and bottom made of POM, yields a consistent, smooth experience that prioritizes a muted sonority free of harshness. Therefore, while each switch has its unique attributes due to the variety of materials employed, the strikingly different sound profiles highlight the significance of each housing’s role in shaping the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning typists will experience a similar level of resistance when triggering a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ between the two: the Lunar Probe has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it slightly lighter, while the WS POM+ has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light. This difference means that while both switches may feel equally responsive at the actuation point, the WS POM+ provides a heftier feel when fully pressed down. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Lunar Probe may be the more suitable choice, whereas those who appreciate a bit more resistance during bottoming out might lean toward the WS POM+. Overall, the Lunar Probe is the lighter switch, while the WS POM+ is the heavier option.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch both exhibit a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they share identical specifications in this regard. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys, resulting in consistent feedback and performance. Therefore, whether one chooses the Lunar Probe or the WS POM+, they will achieve the same pressing depth, ensuring uniformity in key response during use.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches are known for their subtle sound signature, providing a more muted auditory experience that some typists may find calming and less intrusive. This makes them suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer not to draw attention to their typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches produce a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature, which many users find appealing for its richness and resonance. The contrast between these two switches in sound demonstrates that while the Lunar Probe emphasizes a sleek, understated quality, the WS POM+ leans toward a more pronounced auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches are celebrated for their incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, which ensures a fluid keypress without any tactile bump. This smoothness contributes to a delightful and effortless typing experience, allowing for fast and responsive keystrokes. Conversely, the WS POM+ switches also offer a buttery-smooth keystroke, but the character of their linear action may provide a slightly different tactile sensation due to the all-POM construction. Both switches deliver a smooth experience, catering well to those who appreciate linear switches devoid of tactile interference, yet each offers its unique flair that can appeal to different users.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Lunar Probe and WS POM+ switches both promise a smooth typing feel, they diverge when it comes to sound profile. The Lunar Probe favors a more discreet acoustic presence, making it a great choice for quieter setups, whereas the WS POM+ excels with its deep and resonant feedback that many find rewarding. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying linear performance, but your preference will likely come down to whether you prioritize subtlety in sound or a more pronounced auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences in both feel and sound. If you enjoy a smoother and lighter typing experience, the Lunar Probe with its 50-gram bottom out force could be the ideal choice for you, especially if you value stability and consistency in your keystrokes, thanks to Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism. The subtle sound signature also makes it a great option for quieter environments or if you prefer not to disturb others while typing. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly more tactile feedback with a deeper, satisfying "thock" sound and don’t mind a bit more resistance at a 55-gram bottom out, then the WS POM+ might be better suited to your tastes. Its all-POM construction contributes to a genuinely buttery-smooth experience that many typists find incredibly enjoyable. Keep these factors in mind when making your decision, ensuring that your choice aligns with your typing style and sound preferences.
Mentioned in this article
