Keygeek Keylin vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the characteristics of different types can greatly affect your typing experience, and two notable options are the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch. The Keylin is celebrated for its premium typing experience, showcasing exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics thanks to newly developed molds from Keygeek. This makes it an ideal choice for users seeking an uninterrupted and fluid typing feel, perfect for long hours of writing or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn offers a delightful mix of tactile feedback and a resonant sound profile due to its specially designed nylon housings, providing a precise tactile bump along with a deep, immersive sound. This attribute appeals to those who enjoy a more interactive and audible typing experience. While the Keylin excels in smoothness and quiet sophistication, the Quinn brings an engaging tactile and auditory sensation to the table. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Quinn are strikingly similar, as both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is renowned for its softer characteristics, which contribute to a distinctive sound profile that is deeper and fuller when typing. This material inherently absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller auditory experience. Since both the Keylin and Quinn switches employ nylon in identical configurations, users can expect remarkably similar acoustic and tactile qualities, leading to a consistent typing experience across both models.
While both switches feature nylon components, it is important to recognize that the separation of the top and bottom housings plays a key role in user experience. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced during key release. Given that both the Keylin and Quinn use nylon in their respective housings, users can anticipate analogous feedback characteristics and sound profiles. This means users will enjoy a uniform experience in both typing feel and auditory response, regardless of which switch they opt for.
In essence, whether utilizing the Keygeek Keylin or the Gateron Quinn, the consistent use of nylon as a housing material ensures a cohesive performance across both switches. Their shared traits promise a deep, resonant sound and a satisfying tactile feedback that keyboard enthusiasts appreciate. As a result, users looking to achieve similar acoustic and typing results can confidently choose either option, knowing that the nylon material will deliver comparable performance in both cases.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there is a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Quinn switch features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which appeals to those seeking a more substantial typing experience that offers better feedback. Ultimately, while both switches are designed for different preferences in typing dynamics, the Keylin is the lighter option, catering to those favoring ease of use and comfort, while the Quinn provides a firmer resistance suitable for users who appreciate a strong push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, the Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Quinn measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that the Keylin offers a more substantial depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more hearty keystroke feel, while the Quinn's shorter distance could be advantageous for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Consequently, if your preference leans towards responsive key presses, the Quinn may be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a more pronounced travel with each keystroke, the Keylin is the preferable option. Overall, the Keylin is the longer switch, and the Quinn is the shorter switch in this comparison.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 Keygeek Keylin linear switch is noted for delivering rich acoustics, although specific descriptors for its sound profile are not provided. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch features a deep and resonant sound profile characterized by a unique blend of bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant qualities. The Quinn's sound is designed to be immersive and engaging, offering a rich auditory experience that can enhance the overall typing engagement. The difference in sound profiles means that while the Keylin offers a premium acoustic experience, the Quinn provides a more dynamic range of auditory feedback due to its tactility and resonance.
When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness, although specific descriptions beyond that are not detailed. Conversely, the Quinn tactile switch boasts a variety of tactile sensations including snappiness, polish, bounciness, and a creamy texture. The Quinn’s tactile feedback is designed to provide a lively and responsive typing experience, with a well-defined point of tactile feedback that is enjoyable without being overwhelming. The Keylin's smoothness and the Quinn's diverse tactile qualities suggest that while they each offer different typing experiences, they both can cater well to typists looking for comfort and ease.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Keylin linear switches are recognized for their smooth and premium typing experience, the Gateron Quinn tactile switches are celebrated for their deep sound profile and a robust feel that blends tactility with sensitivity. The Keylin focuses primarily on a fluid keystroke experience, whereas the Quinn delivers an engaging auditory and tactile experience that can be quite appealing for those who appreciate feedback with each press. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the sleek smoothness of the linear switch or the rich tactile and auditory feedback of the tactile switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch should hinge on both your typing preferences and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical switch. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force for rapid keystrokes, enjoy a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, and appreciate rich acoustics without the tactile feedback, the Keylin switch will be an excellent fit. It's designed for those who seek a seamless, buttery feel and a refined audio profile that enhances their work or gaming experience without being obstructive. On the other hand, if you gravitate more toward a medium-heavy switch that offers a crisp and pronounced tactile bump, coupled with a deep, resonant sound, the Gateron Quinn would suit you better. The Quinn’s snappy and polished feel, along with its unique bassy and clacky sound, delivers an engaging typing experience that is both tactile and auditory, ideal for those who enjoy a more dynamic feedback during use. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value smoothness and lightness over distinct tactile sensations and auditory richness.
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