Gateron Ink Box Black vs. SP-Star Meteor White

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Meteor White, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, giving users an unparalleled typing experience. With a sound profile reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, this switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Meteor White provides a more subdued experience. Its gentle linear switch offers easy actuation and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. Categorized as being neutral and mild, this switch provides a thocky and polished typing experience. 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

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

SP-Star Meteor White Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Meteor White switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile. This creates a satisfying clacky sound that is often associated with this switch. In contrast, the Meteor White switch utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer composition of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ink Box Black and the Meteor White switches differ in material and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing shares the same characteristics as its top housing, providing a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is because the relative softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.

When considering the overall sound experience of each switch, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials will be felt and heard differently. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while the Ink Box Black and the Meteor White switches may have some similarities in the sound profiles produced by their respective top and bottom housings, the overall experience may differ due to the differing compositions and characteristics of their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Meteor White switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.

Moving on to bottom out force, the Ink Box Black requires 70 grams of force to fully press the key, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light category.

In terms of weight, both switches offer distinctive options. The Ink Box Black presents a slightly heavier typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing feel. This can be beneficial for those seeking a tactile feedback or who prioritize a typewriter-like experience.

Alternatively, the Meteor White switch, with its lighter bottom out force, can be favorable for individuals who prefer a lighter switch. This allows for longer typing sessions without experiencing as much fatigue, making it suitable for individuals who frequently use their keyboards for extended periods, such as for work or gaming sessions.

While the actuation force of the Meteor White switch is not provided, based on the available information, users can expect a similar result to the Ink Box Black in terms of actuation force. However, the lighter bottom out force of the Meteor White provides a noticeable difference in typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding the desired force required for typing and individual typing habits.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Meteor White switch has a slightly longer distance compared to the Ink Box Black switch. This means that when you press down on a key with the Meteor White switch, you will feel a slightly greater distance traveled compared to the Ink Box Black switch.

Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, while a travel distance of 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, with the increasing popularity of gaming, shorter travel distances have become more prevalent. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. In this case, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Ink Box Black switch with its shorter travel distance may be a better choice for you.

On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial key press. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the Meteor White switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be a better fit for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Ink Box Black and the Meteor White switch will depend on your personal preferences for travel distance and the kind of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black and SP-Star Meteor White switches offer different profiles. The Ink Box Black is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Meteor White has a more subdued and neutral sound. It offers a gentle pitter-patter sound profile, similar to a soft "thock" or "knock." While the Ink Box Black provides a more aggressive and sharp sound, the Meteor White offers a softer and more neutral sound profile. Both switches will result in different auditory experiences.

In terms of feel, both the Ink Box Black and Meteor White switches have similarities. They are described as silky and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. A silky switch, which both switches possess, offers an exceptionally smooth typing feel, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a pleasant and refined typing experience due to their smoothness. This similarity in feel ensures that users can expect similar levels of typing comfort and smoothness when using either switch.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Black and SP-Star Meteor White switches offer distinct characteristics in both sound and feel. The Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a crisper and sharper auditory experience. Its feel is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White has a more subdued and neutral sound profile, making it appealing to those who prefer a softer and more gentle typing experience. Its feel is also described as mild and polished, providing a safe and approachable typing experience. While there are differences in sound and feel, both switches deliver smoothness and refined performance. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between a more aggressive sound and a softer sound while receiving a similarly smooth typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be a great choice. These switches offer a smooth and creamy typing experience, making them ideal for those who value smoothness and minimal resistance when typing. Additionally, the Ink Box Black has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a more subdued sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor White would be a suitable option. These switches have a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile and offer an easy to push typing experience. With a mild feel and a polished finish, the Meteor White provides a comfortable and approachable typing experience without sacrificing smoothness and reduced friction.

Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Meteor White will depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider the characteristics that are important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Meteor White Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more