Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2, a beloved linear switch, and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a highly praised tactile switch. The Ink Black V2 is renowned for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, making it a top choice for those seeking a classic linear feel. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches offer a gentle and seductive tactility, combined with a neutral sound profile, making them a perfect option for users who prefer a softer touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches differ significantly. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, while the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing. The INK blend top housing of the Gateron Ink Black V2 produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a notable difference in the sound produced when pressing or releasing keys between these two switches.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches also offer distinct characteristics. The Ink Black V2 incorporates the proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which creates a satisfying and higher-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This can be attributed to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound when pressing down on keys would vary between the Ink Black V2's bottom housing and the Meteor Orange's nylon bottom housing.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, known for a pointed and high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange utilizes nylon top and bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer and more sound-absorbing nature. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound characteristics depending on whether the key is pressed down or released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is evident that they have differing characteristics. The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange has an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare. However, its bottom out force is 57 grams, which is classified as medium-light.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for individuals based on their preferences and use cases. Some may favor lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods of time without fatigue, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, others may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. They would opt for switches with a more forceful push.
In terms of actuation force, the comparison is limited due to the unknown value of the SP-Star Meteor Orange. However, for those who prefer a heavier actuation force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 with its 60-gram actuation force would offer a more forceful typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange is lighter with a 57-gram measurement, suggesting a softer keystroke upon reaching the bottom. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 exerts a 70-gram force at the bottom out, providing a more substantial feeling when fully pressing down.
While we are unable to directly compare the actuation force of the two switches, it is likely that the Gateron Ink Black V2's medium-heavy actuation force would result in a stronger and more pronounced typing experience compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange. However, for individuals seeking a lighter touch at the bottom out, the SP-Star Meteor Orange's lower bottom out force would be more suitable.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 possesses a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange. These distinctions in force measurements make the Gateron Ink Black V2 better suited for users who enjoy a more forceful typing experience, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange caters to those preferring a lighter touch when fully pressing down.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the SP-Star Meteor Orange, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance of the switch.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is best known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a long-time favorite in the mechanical keyboard community. In terms of sound, the Ink Black V2 produces a low-pitched and bassy tone during key presses, which gives it a mellow and deep sound profile. Additionally, these switches have a unique chirpy quality that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is praised for its exquisite gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. Described as thocky, these switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound reminiscent of a soft "knock" or deep "thud" when pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Ink Black V2 and the Meteor Orange exhibit similar qualities. They are both described as mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. This makes the sound and feel approachable to most users, as they fall within a safe and middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through materials used and, in some cases, factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound. The Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, while the Meteor Orange is described as having a neutral sound profile with thocky characteristics. However, both switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a gentle and smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can achieve similar results in terms of feel, with the Ink Black V2 providing a more rich and clacky sound, while the Meteor Orange offers a softer and more seductive tactility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a great choice. It offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound, making it a favorite in the mechanical keyboard community. Additionally, it has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which adds depth and richness to each keystroke. In terms of feel, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a gentle and refined keystroke with reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange is an excellent option. These switches are known for their exquisite gentleness and soft, seductive tactility. They also have a neutral sound profile and produce a thocky sound, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the SP-Star Meteor Orange depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer linear switches with a heavier bottom out force and a bassy sound, the Ink Black V2 is the way to go. However, if you seek a tactile switch with a lighter bottom out force and a thocky sound, the Meteor Orange is a perfect fit.
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