KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Quinn

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are two popular options to consider: the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Quinn. The Cream Yellow is a linear switch known for its distinctively clacky sound and uniquely bouncy typing feel. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a resonant audio feedback, while the lengthened spring adds to its bouncy nature. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch that offers a combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With its specially designed nylon housings, each keystroke produces a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. The Quinn switch guarantees a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Quinn switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite these disparities, both switches' top housings can be used with RGB lighting due to their translucency.

The contrast continues with the bottom housings of the Cream Yellow and the Quinn switches, as they also employ different materials. The Cream Yellow incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar sound profile as the Quinn's nylon bottom housing. Both materials contribute to a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a consistent, immersive typing experience with these switches, regardless of the brand.

It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on which part of the switch is being pressed. When pressing down on either the Cream Yellow or the Quinn switches, the qualities of the bottom housing are more apparent. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, giving users a distinct tactile experience. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, both switches excel in different aspects, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience for users.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Cream Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow has a force of 58 grams, while the Quinn has a heavier force of 67 grams. This indicates that the Quinn provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push when pressing all the way down. Overall, if someone prefers a lighter typing experience, the Cream Yellow would be a suitable choice, whereas those who prefer a heavier and more tactile feel may opt for the Quinn. However, it is worth noting that even though their force levels may vary, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so the overall results could be quite similar for users who prefer these force levels.

Travel distance

The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have slight differences in their travel distance. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who desire faster response times. If you're looking for a highly responsive switch, the Quinn's slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, it's important to note that some people find shorter travel distances to feel more abrupt, so if you prefer a deeper keystroke, the Cream Yellow's slightly longer travel distance may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your individual typing style and personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a unique combination of a deep, resonant sound profile with a touch of character. The sound of the Quinn switch is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is also described as clacky, with a clean and sharp sound profile. Both switches provide an immersive auditory experience, but the Cream Yellow switch leans towards a sharper sound, while the Quinn switch offers a deeper and bass-heavy sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy typing experience. The shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem of the Cream Yellow switch contribute to a uniquely bouncy feel. This switch provides a lively and spring-like feedback sensation, giving users a rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Quinn switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. This responsiveness can be attributed to longer or dual-staged springs in the switch. The Quinn switch is also polished, providing a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Quinn switch is characterized as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It also offers a buttery and creamy typing experience, with a seamless and effortless sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Cream Yellow switch emphasizing bounciness and the Quinn switch offering a combination of snappiness and smoothness.

Taking into account all the available information, the Cream Yellow and Quinn switches provide distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch delivers a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, while the Quinn switch offers a deeper and resonant sound with a precise and clean tactile bump. If you are looking for a sharp and snappy sound with a bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and bass-heavy sound profile with a combination of snappiness and smoothness in the typing experience, the Quinn switch would be a great option. Keep in mind that the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a distinct and clacky sound with a medium bottom out force and a uniquely bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility with a deep and resonant sound profile, along with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be the perfect fit. In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow offers a clacky sound, while the Quinn provides a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound. When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow offers a bouncy sensation, whereas the Quinn provides a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound, feel, bottom out force, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more