Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile 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 Silent Tactile switch offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Lunar Probe stands out for its stable and consistent keypresses, providing an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation that is perfect for those seeking a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch from Wuque Studio is ideal for office environments, offering medium tactility and superior noise reduction without silicone dampeners. This innovative design sets a new standard in silent switches, providing a quiet yet tactile 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
63.5g
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, it is evident that they both utilize nylon as a material for the bottom housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, while the Lunar Probe opts for polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top housing, which offers a similar deep and full sound experience to the bottom housing.
Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material of nylon between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, the differentiation in the top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe produces a clearer and resonant sound due to its stiffness, while the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast highlights the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience and sound quality of mechanical switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback experienced by users. While both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile showcase the benefits of using nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in the top housing materials, polycarbonate and nylon, leads to unique sound characteristics for each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound experience, understanding the impact of housing materials can help you select a switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Lunar Probe has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a relatively smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile features a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which offers a more substantial typing feel. While the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile is unknown, the difference in bottom out force indicates that it requires more pressure to fully press the keys compared to the Lunar Probe. Overall, the Lunar Probe is lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile is heavier in terms of bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a more robust and tactile typing feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on the user's preference for typing force, with the Lunar Probe providing a lighter touch and the WS Silent Tactile offering a more substantial push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers looking for quick response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who prefer a more responsive feel, the WS Silent Tactile may be the preferred option. However, for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the Lunar Probe may offer a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 provides a subtle and smooth typing experience, while the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offers a muted noise profile, perfect for quiet office environments. Both switches aim to reduce the traditional clacky sound associated with mechanical keyboards, with the WS Silent Tactile taking it a step further by providing a softer and quieter typing experience without the need for silicone dampeners.
In terms of feel, the Lunar Probe linear switch is designed to offer stability and consistency in keypresses with its novel dual rail mechanism, resulting in a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch provides a medium level of tactility that offers a balance between a satisfying tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience. The switch's precision-engineered stem railings ensure a crisp typing feel without the loud noise typically associated with tactile switches.
Overall, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lunar Probe focuses on smoothness and stability with its linear design, the WS Silent Tactile provides a balance between tactile feedback and noise reduction. Whether you prefer a quiet linear typing experience or a tactile switch with reduced noise, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to impress. Ultimately, with either switch, you can expect a reliable and satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, you should take into account the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, linear typing experience with subtle sound, then the Lunar Probe may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a silent yet tactile typing experience that offers a blend of tranquility and precision, then the WS Silent Tactile switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for keypress feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Consider your needs and preferences carefully before making your selection.
Mentioned in this article
