Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their smooth keypresses. The Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stability and consistency, providing a subtle sound signature alongside its pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque offer a quieter typing experience with ingeniously designed stem railings that reduce switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners. While the Lunar Probe emphasizes smoothness, the WS Silent Linear focuses on a blend of tranquility and precision. These distinctions make each switch suitable for different preferences, whether you prioritize stability and consistency or a quieter 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 Linear, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiff nature that leads to a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a deeper, fuller sound profile. This results in a more resonant and clear sound with the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe, while the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear produces a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches share the same nylon material. This classic switch housing material is known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. As a result, the bottom housing of both the Lunar Probe and the WS Silent Linear contribute to a similar sound experience, emphasizing the duller and rounder sound quality associated with nylon. This consistency in bottom housing material showcases how certain characteristics can be maintained across different switches, even when other components differ.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, it becomes evident that the choice of material plays a crucial role. While the Lunar Probe's top housing provides a sharper and more resonant sound when pressing down on a key, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a consistent duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys. This highlights how the specific combination of housing materials can influence the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the WS Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, as opposed to the Lunar Probe's 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lunar Probe may be preferred by those who enjoy a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Linear switch provides a more substantial and tactile typing feel for users who prefer a bit of resistance. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Lunar Probe offering a lighter option and the WS Silent Linear providing a medium-heavy feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Some may appreciate the slightly longer travel distance of the Lunar Probe for a more deliberate keypress, while others may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Linear for quicker input.
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 Linear 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, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a more muted and subdued sound profile, thanks to its innovative design that reduces switch noise without the need for silicone dampeners. Both switches aim to minimize noise, but the WS Silent Linear switch provides a unique typing experience that balances tranquility and precision, while the Lunar Probe switch maintains a more traditional linear sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. Meanwhile, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch provides a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its gentle characteristics. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the WS Silent Linear switch offers a distinct feel that sets it apart from traditional silent switches.
Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with a focus on reducing noise. While they may differ slightly in sound and feel, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and responsive typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth, pre-lubed linear typing experience with a subtle sound signature, then the Lunar Probe switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a switch that reduces noise without the use of silicone dampeners, providing a neutral typing experience with a more gentle feel, then the WS Silent Linear switch is the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound consistency.
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