Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Lunar Probe and Gateron Silent Ink Black are two popular options to consider. The Lunar Probe switch is praised for its unique dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is known for its quiet and cushioned typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. While the Lunar Probe offers a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Silent Ink Black provides a muffled and plush bottom-out 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Silent Ink Black feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiff and resonant qualities, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, providing a different auditory experience for users. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their housing materials.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Lunar Probe and Silent Ink Black switches vary in material composition. The Lunar Probe incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In comparison, the Silent Ink Black features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that complements the top housing's sound profile, offering a pointed and high-pitched sound that adds to the overall typing experience. While the materials may be different, both bottom housings contribute to the switches' unique sound characteristics.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Gateron Silent Ink Black provides users with a range of sound profiles to choose from. The top housing primarily influences the sound when keys are released, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed. Whether it's the stiffer and clearer sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Lunar Probe or the softer and fuller sound of the nylon housing in the Silent Ink Black, users can expect a unique typing experience based on their preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black 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, making it a light option. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom-out force of 70 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a softer touch may lean towards the Lunar Probe, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Silent Ink Black. Both switches provide different levels of feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preference for actuation and bottom-out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual comfort and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lunar Probe has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ink Black. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances, with the Lunar Probe being slightly shorter and the Silent Ink Black being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 switch provides a subtle sound signature, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a muted experience, minimizing noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The Lunar Probe switch is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without completely eliminating the mechanical feel, whereas the Silent Ink Black switch is perfect for environments where noise reduction is key.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch offers an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch provides a cushiony, pillow-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. The Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the above information, it is clear that the Gateron Lunar Probe and Silent Ink Black switches offer distinct advantages based on sound and feel preferences. While the Lunar Probe excels in providing a stable and consistent linear typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Silent Ink Black switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing environment with a cushiony and smooth typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance, and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch with 50 grams of bottom out force, along with stable keypresses and a smooth linear sensation, then the Lunar Probe may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, a cushioned bottom-out feel, and a quieter typing experience, then the Silent Ink Black switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as keypress force preference, typing environment noise considerations, and desired typing feel. Choose wisely based on your individual preferences and requirements to enhance your typing experience.
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