TTC Honey vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the TTC Honey and the Gateron Quinn. The Honey switch is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, its deep and pleasant sound profile adds a touch of elegance to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a unique combination of crisp tactile feedback and a deep, resonant sound. This switch's specially designed nylon housings contribute to its distinct sound profile, creating a typing experience that is both immersive and characterful. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them appealing, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Gateron Quinn differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Honey utilizes a polycarbonate material for both its top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate’s stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Quinn features a nylon top and bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon housing creates a rounder and duller sound compared to the polycarbonate.
While there are differences between the housing materials, both the Honey and the Quinn provide unique sound qualities. The choice between the two depends on the preference for the particular sound characteristics. However, if one prefers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Honey with its polycarbonate housing would be the preferable choice. On the other hand, the Quinn's nylon housing is suited for those who seek a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer high-quality sound profiles tailored to individual preferences.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on a switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each will be experienced differently. The bottom housing material has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing the key. Therefore, depending on the desired sound experience and sensation when typing, the choice between the two housing materials may vary. Both the Honey and the Quinn provide distinct sound profiles, allowing users to select the housing material that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is clear that there are notable differences in their weights. The TTC Honey linear switch has a relatively lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. Its bottom out force of 50 grams indicates that a slightly heavier force is needed to fully press the key.
On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a contrasting experience with a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. This provides a more substantial push feel during typing, which may be favored by those who prefer a stronger and more noticeable keystroke feedback. The bottom out force of the Quinn tactile switch is even heavier at 67 grams, further emphasizing the robustness of its typing experience.
If one prefers a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Honey linear switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for effortless keystrokes. However, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces of the Quinn tactile switch would be more appropriate.
In summary, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Meanwhile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a heavier feel with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. These differences in weight cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose the switch that suits their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is clear that the Honey has a longer distance of 3.8 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. The Honey switch falls within the range of traditional travel distances, providing a comfortable depth for users. On the other hand, the Quinn offers a shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Quinn would be a suitable choice, but if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Honey's longer travel distance would be more suitable. In either case, both switches offer distinct experiences, providing users with options depending on their preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Honey linear switch is best described as having a subdued sound profile. This means that it produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of sound qualities. It has a bassy characteristic, meaning it offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Quinn switch is described as clacky, producing a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. It also has a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Lastly, the Quinn switch provides a resonant experience, featuring a higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. Overall, the Honey switch offers a subdued sound, while the Quinn switch provides a more diverse range of sound qualities.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for delivering a smooth and creamy typing experience. This is achieved by having lubricant applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials that create a buttery sensation. Typing on the Honey switch is described as gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, creating a seamless and uniform experience. It is also referred to as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a snappy and polished feel. The switch is super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. Similar to the Honey switch, the Quinn switch also has a buttery sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is also described as bouncy, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively keys that rebound when pressed. Overall, the Honey switch emphasizes a smooth and creamy typing experience, while the Quinn switch focuses on a snappy and polished feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the TTC Honey linear switch is characterized by a subdued sound and a smooth and creamy feel. It offers a more subtle sound profile and a seamless, effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a diverse range of sound qualities, including a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound. Its feel is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, and buttery, combining responsiveness, smoothness, and rebound in the typing experience. While the two switches differ in their subjective qualities, they both provide unique and enjoyable experiences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience, the Honey switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a light and effortless keystroke, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys. Additionally, the Honey switch produces a subdued sound, making it suitable for shared spaces or those who prefer a more subtle sound signature.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, the Quinn switch would be a better fit for you. With each key press, you can expect a precise and clean tactile bump, adding character to your typing experience. The Quinn switch is known for its rich and immersive sound, characterized by a lower frequency range and a resonant tone.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Consider factors such as bottom out force, smoothness, tactility, and sound profile to determine which switch aligns better with your preferences and typing style. Happy typing!
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