Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, you may find yourself comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Lunar Probe is a linear switch recognized for its smooth and stable keypresses, thanks to Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism. On the other hand, the WS Red boasts a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, providing a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Both switches offer unique advantages in terms of smoothness, sound signature, and typing experience. 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
67g
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 housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches offer distinct qualities that affect the sound and feel of typing. The Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the WS Red features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Both materials have their advantages; polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, while nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller yet rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches opt for a nylon material. This choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softness helps absorb sound, making the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches more pronounced. While both switches use the same material for the bottom housing, the distinct characteristics of their top housings will still influence the overall sound and typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Lunar Probe and Wuque Studio WS Red switches share a nylon bottom housing, their top housings differ in material and sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound, complemented by the nylon bottom housing's depth and fullness. On the other hand, the WS Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, paired with the nylon bottom housing's ability to absorb sound. Each switch's unique combination of housing materials creates a specific typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Lunar Probe has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the WS Red has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. The lighter actuation force of the Lunar Probe is suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the WS Red offers a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Lunar Probe being slightly shorter than the WS Red. Gamers may prefer the Lunar Probe for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may opt for the WS Red. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of 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 Red 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 offers a subtle and smooth sound signature, while the Wuque Studio WS Red provides a familiar sound due to its classic material blend. Both switches may offer a quiet typing experience, but the WS Red might have a slightly more pronounced sound due to the heavier actuation force and double-stage spring.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe promises an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke. Whether you prefer a smoother, lighter touch or a more tactile and substantial typing feel, both switches cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Lunar Probe and Wuque Studio WS Red switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch by considering factors such as your choice of keyboard, keycaps, and personal typing style. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider your preference for keypress weight and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter keypress with stable and consistent keypresses, as well as a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, the Gateron Lunar Probe may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force with a bouncy and responsive typing experience, as well as a satisfying and substantial typing feel, the Wuque Studio WS Red may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for keypress weight, typing experience, and overall feel.
Mentioned in this article
