Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring different mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Lunar Probe stand out as notable linear options. The Ink Black V2 is praised for its classic linear feel, offering a smooth downstroke and a satisfyingly rich clack. Known for being low-pitched, bassy, and polished, this switch is a longtime favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe showcases Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. These switches provide an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. While the Ink Black V2 is recognized for its traditional appeal, the Lunar Probe stands out for its advanced technology. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Lunar Probe differ significantly, particularly in their top housing compositions. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 offers a thinner and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. While both materials contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience, the INK blend is noted for its unique clacky sound, while the polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and resonance, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Ink Black V2 features the proprietary INK blend, which also contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend. This contrast highlights the impact that different bottom housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer distinct sound profiles, their shared use of high-quality materials ensures a premium typing experience in both cases. The INK blend and polycarbonate top housings of each switch deliver unique acoustics and aesthetics, with the INK blend emphasizing a clacky sound and the polycarbonate enhancing clarity and resonance. Similarly, the INK blend and nylon bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch, with the nylon offering a deeper sound profile compared to the more pointed sound of the INK blend. In conclusion, while there are differences in sound characteristics between the two switches, the use of quality materials in both ensures a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that the Lunar Probe is lighter while the Ink Black V2 is heavier. The actuation force of the Ink Black V2 is 60 grams, making it require a medium-heavy force to trigger a keystroke, while the Lunar Probe only needs 45 grams, which is a lighter touch. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 is 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Lunar Probe's 50 grams. For those who prefer a lighter feel to type for longer periods, the Lunar Probe would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Ink Black V2 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be appealing to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different feel when typing or gaming, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more traditional travel distance, the Ink Black V2 may be the better option, but if you crave a shorter distance for quicker response times, the Lunar Probe may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a quality typing experience, but with slight variations in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy qualities, providing a mellow and rich tone during key presses. Additionally, it has a chirpy sound characteristic, making it stand out with a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, leaving room for interpretation. When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and refined touch that ensures smooth key travel. Conversely, the feel of the Lunar Probe switch remains undisclosed, leaving potential users curious about its tactile sensation. Overall, if you prefer a linear switch with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, as well as a mild and polished typing feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a reliable choice. However, if you are intrigued by the innovative dual rail mechanism and pre-lubed linear sensation promised by the Gateron Lunar Probe switch, giving it a try could lead to a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, you should choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, and a mild and polished typing feel. This classic linear switch offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack that many in the community love. On the other hand, you should opt for the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a stable and consistent keypress experience due to its dual rail mechanism, a pre-lubed linear sensation, and a subtle sound signature. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of weight, sound, and feel. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so make sure to consider what matters most to you when making your decision.