Gateron Lunar Probe vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and PH Studio Yoel both stand out for their unique features and characteristics. The Gateron Lunar Probe is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses thanks to its dual rail mechanism, offering a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, provides a chewy typing experience and a bright and clacky sound profile that is both satisfying and pronounced. While the Lunar Probe offers a more subtle and smooth typing experience, the Yoel delivers a more tactile and vibrant feel. 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
53g
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
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the PH Studio Yoel, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for the switches. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics from both the Lunar Probe and the Yoel switches when it comes to their top housing.
However, where the switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Lunar Probe opts for a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This contrast in materials results in distinct sound profiles for the two switches, depending on whether one values a fuller or a more subdued sound.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that each material brings its own qualities to the table. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound experience while POM offers a more muted tone. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key, with both switches featuring polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Lunar Probe and the Yoel will come down to individual preferences for sound characteristics and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Lunar Probe is lighter in both aspects. The Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the Lunar Probe more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. However, the Lunar Probe offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth in each keystroke compared to the Yoel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the feel of key presses and the desired level of 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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 linear switch is described as providing a subtle and smooth linear typing experience, with a sound signature that is not explicitly mentioned. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is known for its bright and clacky sound profile, with a pronounced and satisfying resonance when keys bottom out. Depending on personal preference, the Lunar Probe may offer a quieter and more understated typing sound, while the Yoel delivers a more crisp and distinct auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Lunar Probe switch is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses due to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. However, the specific tactile qualities of the switch are not provided. The Yoel switch, on the other hand, is described as providing a "delectably chewy typing experience," enveloping fingertips with every press. This switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation, akin to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron Lunar Probe switch prioritizes stability and consistency in keypresses, providing a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch delivers a bright and clacky typing experience with a pronounced resonance, offering a delectably chewy feel with creamy, polished, and silky qualities. Depending on whether the user prefers a quieter and smoother typing experience or a more pronounced and tactile feel, both switches can cater to a range of preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Lunar Probe with a 50-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Yoel with a 60-gram bottom out force might be the better choice. Additionally, consider the sound and feel profiles of each switch - the Lunar Probe offers a smooth and subtle typing experience, while the Yoel provides a more pronounced and clacky sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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