Gateron Ink Box Black vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in search of the perfect mechanical keyboard switch? Look no further, as we present to you two exceptional options that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Box Black, a linear switch, is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, making each keystroke an absolute dream. The sound produced is reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, which adds a unique flair to your typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, boasts exquisitely gentle tactility, providing a soft and seductive feel with every keypress. The sound profile remains neutral, allowing for a seamless and pleasant typing session. Both switches offer their own set of desirable qualities, catering to those who appreciate a clacky and high-pitched experience or a mild and thocky one. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Meteor Orange exhibit distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The Ink Box Black uses a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings. This blend creates a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, when typing on the Ink Box Black, you can expect a thinner and higher-pitched clack, while the Meteor Orange will provide a rounder and duller sound.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Ink Box Black and Meteor Orange switches are made from different materials, they share some similar qualities. Both switches produce a satisfying clacky sound, albeit with different characteristics. Additionally, both housing materials result in a relatively high-pitched sound profile. However, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend imparts a sharper sound, while the nylon of the Meteor Orange creates a more rounded and duller sound.
When considering the impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role. With the Ink Box Black, the qualities of the proprietary INK blend will be more pronounced during bottom-out, influencing the sound and feel of the switch at that moment. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the interaction with the top housing of both the Ink Box Black and the Meteor Orange will contribute to the overall typing experience, albeit in different ways.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, we can see some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, while the specific actuation force for the Meteor Orange is unknown. However, we do know that the bottom out force for the Ink Box Black is 70 grams, whereas the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams. Consequently, the Ink Box Black is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Meteor Orange, making the Ink Box Black better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The Ink Box Black allows for a stronger push feel, providing a tactile feedback that some users desire. Conversely, the Meteor Orange offers a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for those who prioritize extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. In terms of weight, the preference for lighter or heavier switches will vary depending on the individual's typing preferences and requirements. Overall, while the Ink Box Black and Meteor Orange may yield different results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to various typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have different travel distances. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Black falls within the category of shorter travel distances, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange provides a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who desire a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box 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 Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches are best known for their clacky and high-pitched profile. When pressed, they produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a more neutral sound profile. They produce a moderate sound when pressed, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. The Ink Box Black switches have a more distinct and vibrant sound, while the Meteor Orange switches have a softer and more balanced sound. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired sound experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience. The Ink Box Black switches are described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the Meteor Orange switches are also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches have reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. The only difference in feel between the two switches is that the Ink Box Black switches are known for their silky smoothness, while the Meteor Orange switches offer a milder and more gentle typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Ink Box Black switches are best known for their clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, while the Meteor Orange switches offer a more neutral sound profile and a slightly milder typing experience. Both switches provide excellent overall performance, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prefer a sharper and more vibrant sound with a silky smooth typing feel, the Ink Box Black switches would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more balanced sound and a slightly milder typing experience, the Meteor Orange switches would be a great option. In both cases, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a good choice for you. These switches offer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black provides a silky and polished experience, ensuring minimal resistance and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and gentle tactility, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would suit your preferences. These switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for different environments. Furthermore, the Meteor Orange switches offer a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a safe and approachable feel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Box Black and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches will depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound signature, and typing feel. Consider the information provided and choose the switch that best aligns with your desired keyboard experience.
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