Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a smooth typing experience, the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Lunar Probe immediately come to mind. The Durock Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and precise actuation with a 55g weight that strikes a good balance. It also boasts reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure, along with a unique light column feature for in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe is known for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. It offers an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. While the Black Lotus is characterized as 'Silky', 'Buttery', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Lunar Probe's specific categories are not provided. Both switches have their unique strengths, 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches both offer unique characteristics that can affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Black Lotus features a Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium feel, while the Lunar Probe has a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Both housing materials offer a different aesthetic appeal, with the Black Lotus having a unique blend and the Lunar Probe featuring a clear polycarbonate housing that is ideal for RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Black Lotus and Lunar Probe switches utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Despite having different top housing materials, the similar use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches shows a shared preference for the deeper and fuller sound profile that nylon provides.
Considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the sound and feel of the switches, users can expect that the qualities of the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key. While the Black Lotus and Lunar Probe switches may have differences in their top housing materials, both switches are designed to offer a premium typing experience with unique sound profiles. Whether it's the Modified PC & UPE Blend housing of the Black Lotus or the polycarbonate housing of the Lunar Probe, users can expect a high-quality feel and sound from both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus is heavier in both aspects. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lunar Probe make it ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience or need to type for extended periods. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the Black Lotus provide a more substantial typing experience, catering to users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some opting for the lighter Lunar Probe for extended typing sessions and others choosing the heavier Black Lotus for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Black Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial depth when typing. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe provides a slightly shallower travel distance, potentially offering a quicker response time that gamers may prefer. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer quality performance, so regardless of which you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of overall switch functionality.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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.
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 Black Lotus is known for its subtle sound signature, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches are described as offering an incredibly smooth sensation accompanied by a subtle sound that is not too distracting. Keep in mind that factors such as your keyboard and keycap choices will influence the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. These switches offer a pleasant and refined feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switches is not specified in the provided information. However, based on the description of being incredibly smooth and pre-lubed, users can expect a similar level of smoothness and comfort in typing.
Overall, both the Durock Black Lotus and Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus excels in providing a smooth and precise typing experience with a moderate actuation weight and removable light column for added customization. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches prioritize stable and consistent keypresses along with a smooth linear sensation. Depending on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and other factors like actuation force, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It's essential to consider your individual typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique in-switch lighting feature, the Black Lotus may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with stable and consistent keypresses, the Lunar Probe would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to your personal preferences regarding actuation weight, typing experience, and additional features. Consider what factors are most important to you in a switch, and make your choice based on that.
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