Gateron Lunar Probe vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Yunhai, both of which are linear switches but offer distinct experiences for users. The Lunar Probe is renowned for its innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable and consistent keypresses while providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience enhanced by pre-lubed construction and a subtle sound signature. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who value precision and quiet operation. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches cater to those who enjoy a more profound auditory experience; their deep, rounded sound profile, combined with a notably light actuation force, creates a gentle, effortless typing feel that is especially appealing for long typing sessions. While both switches excel in delivering a linear switch experience, the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and actuation force. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Yunhai switches showcase a clear differentiation in their design philosophies, particularly in their choice of plastics for the top housing. The Lunar Probe's use of polycarbonate for its top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate's stiffer nature enhances resonance and sharpness. This characteristic makes the Lunar Probe particularly appealing for users who prioritize a lively sound profile—especially when paired with RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. In contrast, the Yunhai opts for nylon in its top housing, which delivers a softer, fuller sound. The inherent properties of nylon, known for absorbing sound more effectively than rigid materials, produce a more muted auditory experience, ideal for those who prefer a deeper and rounder typing sound.
When examining the bottom housings of the two switches, it's interesting to note that both the Lunar Probe and the Yunhai utilize nylon. As a material, nylon is recognized for its ability to dampen sound, resulting in a more substantial bottom-out feel and sound shared across both switches. This consistency of material in the bottom housing reinforces the deeper, fuller sound profile that both switches provide when keys are pressed, regardless of the differences in their top housings. Thus, while users might experience a contrasting auditory approach due to the top housing materials, they can expect a similar tactile experience and sound absorption during the actuation of the switches.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Yunhai highlights how the influence of housing material can vary depending on its placement in a switch. The Lunar Probe’s polycarbonate top delivers a brighter and more resonant sound upon release, while the Yunhai’s nylon top ensures a softer auditory experience. However, the shared use of nylon in both bottom housings creates a consistent underlying depth and fullness in tactile feedback and sound across both switches. Thus, individuals looking for distinct sound profiles during typing will find marked differences, but both switches ultimately converge on a similarly rich bottom-out experience thanks to their common bottom housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we see some interesting similarities and slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating they share a common depth feeling when fully pressed, but the Lunar Probe has a slightly higher actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Yunhai's 42 grams. As a result, the Yunhai switch is the lighter option, which may appeal to users seeking a more effortless typing experience and prolonged use without fatigue. Conversely, the Lunar Probe, being marginally heavier, could cater to those who prefer a more substantial feedback when pressing down on the keys. Overall, both switches are relatively light, which makes them suitable for long typing sessions, but the Yunhai offers an even softer actuation for those who prioritize ease of pressing.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience the same amount of movement from the top to the bottom of each switch, resulting in a similar tactile experience. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect comparable performance and feel from both switches in terms of actuation depth. Thus, whether using the Gateron Lunar Probe or the TTC Yunhai, the overall travel dynamics will be the same.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 offers a subtle sound signature, which means it won't be particularly loud or distracting during use. This can be appealing for those who prefer a quieter typing experience while still enjoying the tactile connection to the keyboard. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is characterized by a deeper, rounded sound profile. This unique acoustic quality can provide a more pleasant auditory feedback for typists who appreciate a richer sound when typing. Ultimately, while both switches present different auditory experiences, personal preference will play a significant role in deciding which is more desirable.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches excel due to their incredibly smooth, pre-lubed design, which allows for a seamless keypress experience. This smoothness can significantly enhance the typing experience, making it enjoyable for extended periods. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai switches feature an incredibly light actuation force, making them ideal for typists who favor a gentler, almost effortless feel when pressing the keys. While both switches cater to different preferences regarding how they feel under the fingers, they both aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch favors a smooth and subtle typing experience, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch excels in delivering a deeper sound and a very light keypress. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. For those who prioritize subdued sounds with a silky touch versus a pronounced auditory experience with a gentle actuation, both switches can offer rewarding outcomes based on your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the TTC Yunhai linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding feel and sound. If you prioritize a smooth, consistent keypress experience with a light actuation force, the Lunar Probe would be an excellent choice due to its novel dual rail mechanism, pre-lubed feel, and subtle sound profile, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. Conversely, if you find yourself drawn to a gentle actuation and a unique auditory experience with a deep, rounded sound, the Yunhai switches will cater to your needs, offering an effortless feel that enhances your typing comfort. In conclusion, assess your typing style and sound preferences as you make your decision; each switch presents distinct advantages that can greatly enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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