TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a tactile mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Quinn. The Gold Brown Pro is known for its subtle and nuanced feedback, providing typists with a gentle tactile bump that allows them to immerse in their tasks without being distracted by loud key presses. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a unique combination of crisp, light tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, adding character to the typing experience. While the Gold Brown Pro is praised for its understated tactile experience, the Quinn switches are noted for their precise and clean tactile bump. 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
45g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Quinn both offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Gold Brown Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Quinn's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference highlights the impact that housing material can have on the overall typing experience, as the Gold Brown Pro may be preferred for those seeking a crisper sound, while the Quinn may appeal to those looking for a more muted and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Quinn utilize nylon material. This results in a similar typing experience for both switches, with a deeper and fuller sound profile being characteristic of nylon housing. The softer nature of nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the overall typing feel and sound may be more alike between the two switches when the bottom housing qualities take precedence during key presses.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Quinn may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience with RGB lighting capabilities. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn's nylon housing throughout provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who enjoy a more muted and round sound profile during typing. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is unknown, while the Quinn has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Brown Pro may be the better option as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch is ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to varying preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Quinn's shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prioritize quick key presses and responsiveness. Overall, both switches offer a similar tactile experience, with the main difference being the slight variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro switch offers a thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich sound while maintaining a mellow tone. This creates a neutral sound that is suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch boasts a bassy, clacky, and low-pitched sound, giving a combination of deep, sharp, and rich tones during key presses. This results in a resonant and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can choose between the understated sound of the Gold Brown Pro switch or the character-filled sound of the Gateron Quinn switch.
Regarding feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and a two-staged tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch provides a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel, giving a super responsive and elastic feedback with a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. Users can decide between the gentle and subtle typing experience of the Gold Brown Pro switch or the lively and buttery sensation of the Gateron Quinn switch based on their preferences and typing style.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch focuses on subtle tactility and subdued sound profile, providing a refined and immersive typing experience for those who prefer a background presence. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch offers a precise, crisp, and character-filled tactile bump with a deep and resonant sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a touch of uniqueness. Depending on whether you prioritize a mild and polished typing feel with a thocky sound or a snappy and buttery typing sensation with a bassy sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, tailored to their individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a subtle and understated tactile feedback with a quiet sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a deep, resonant sound, the Quinn switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a gentle, immersive typing experience or a more lively and characterful one. Happy typing!
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