HMX Hibiscus vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference, particularly between the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Quinn. The Hibiscus, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and ultra-light actuation force, making it ideal for typists seeking a seamless and effortless typing experience. Its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound when pressed adds a unique auditory delight to this experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn presents a tactile option that combines a crisp tactile bump with a deep, resonant sound profile, offering a rich, immersive keystroke that enhances the typing feel and adds character to your interactions. The nylon housings further contribute to its polished feel, providing a tactile sensation that many users find enjoyable. While the Hibiscus switches cater to those who prioritize smoothness and lightness, the Quinn switches appeal to individuals who appreciate tactile feedback and a more layered sound signature. 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
42g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Quinn both utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components. Nylon is recognized for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic is pivotal for users seeking a more muted auditory experience, as nylon, being a softer plastic compared to other alternatives, allows for greater sound absorption. Consequently, both the Hibiscus and the Quinn should provide users with a similarly pleasant typing experience, offering a duller and rounder sound that minimizes the high-pitched clacks often associated with harder plastics.
When examining the housing design of these switches further, it is important to note that the impact of the switch's sound profile will be influenced by both the top and bottom housings equally. Since both the Hibiscus and Quinn feature nylon in both positions, users will benefit from a cohesive sound experience throughout the typing action. The top housing contributes primarily to the acoustic quality when releasing keys, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound as well as the tactile feedback during actuation. As both switches share identical materials, this synergy ensures a consistent performance in sound and feel.
In contrast, if the bottom and top housings were constructed from different materials, the overall tonal characteristics and tactile feedback would be split between the two. This would create distinct auditory experiences based on how each housing contributes to sound absorption and resonance. However, since the Hibiscus and Quinn maintain consistent nylon construction throughout, users can expect a harmonious and unified typing feel, resulting in a predictable and satisfying response regardless of which switch is sampled. Ultimately, both switches represent a classic choice among enthusiasts for their ability to deliver a refined and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who favor less resistance for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Quinn has a higher actuation force at 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, aligning more with those who appreciate a firmer keystroke which provides a more substantial feel when typing. Therefore, the Hibiscus is the lighter option while the Quinn is the heavier one. This difference means that while both switches can deliver a satisfying experience, the Hibiscus may better suit casual users or gamers, whereas the Quinn appeals to those seeking a more tactile and robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, the Hibiscus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that users of the Hibiscus will experience a slightly deeper keypress, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Quinn's shorter travel distance could be advantageous for gamers looking for faster response times. While both switches are on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, the Hibiscus offers a touch more depth for users who appreciate that characteristic in their typing experience, making it the longer of the two options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy tone, making it quite engaging for users who enjoy auditory feedback as they type. In comparison, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deeper and more resonant sound due to its nylon housings. This switch strikes a balance between a crisp and bright sound with its sharp actuation and a bass-heavy tone that adds richness to each keystroke. Overall, while both switches provide a unique auditory experience, the Hibiscus leans toward a snappy and percussive sound, whereas the Quinn delivers a more immersive, rounded auditory profile.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus excels in delivering an ultra-smooth typing experience, making it a delight for those who prioritize fluid key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn offers a combination of snappy responsiveness, a polished finish, and a lively bounce, giving it a more dynamic tactile feedback. This medium tactile feel is accentuated by its clean actuation, allowing typists to experience both a satisfying bump and a smooth return. While the Hibiscus focuses on smoothness, the Quinn provides a refined tactile sensation that engages the user without overwhelming them.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch present enjoyable qualities tailored to different typing preferences. The Hibiscus offers an ultra-smooth and crispy sound, while the Quinn stands out for its deep resonance and tactile feedback. Depending on whether one favors smooth linearity or a dynamic tactile sensation, both switches can provide satisfying experiences on the keyboard, though they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. If you desire a lightweight feel with a smooth, effortless keystroke, the Hibiscus is an exceptional choice. Its ultra-light actuation force and satisfying clacky sound signature make it ideal for those who enjoy a fluid typing experience, whether for regular typing or fast-paced gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a typing experience that combines tactile feedback with a deeper, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn is the way to go. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and snappy responsiveness provide a satisfying tactile bump, making it perfect for typing tasks that benefit from feedback. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the smoothness of the Hibiscus or the rich tactility of the Quinn, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing experiences, allowing you to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup to match your needs.
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