Bsun Kiki Red vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Kiki Red and Gateron Quinn are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Kiki Reds are linear switches known for their comfortable high-pitched, clacky nuance without being overly loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems, they provide smooth actuation and a medium-light weighting for a subtle auditory feedback experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a tactile experience with a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to their nylon housings. Each keystroke with the Quinn switches provides a rich and immersive sound, adding character to the typing experience. When choosing between these switches, consider the Kiki Reds for a balanced and smooth typing experience and the Quinn for precise tactility and rich sound. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gateron Quinn switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Kiki Red features POM top and bottom housings, known for creating a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively muted. In contrast, the Quinn switches utilize nylon top and bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a similar deep and full sound experience, albeit with slight variations in tone and resonance.
While the Kiki Red and Quinn switches share similarities in their ability to produce a deep and pleasing sound, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The POM housings of the Kiki Red are known for their unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side, creating a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housings of the Quinn switches offer a fuller sound profile with a rounder tone, providing a more impactful typing feel. This highlights how the housing material of a switch can influence both the sound and tactile feedback during use.
In terms of construction, the differences between the top and bottom housings of the Kiki Red and Quinn switches result in varying sound and feel characteristics. The bottom housing of a switch, whether POM or nylon, has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction illustrates how the choice of housing material for each component can enhance different aspects of the typing experience, catering to individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch. The Kiki Red requires 42 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Quinn switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kiki Red, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Quinn switch for a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Kiki Red has a slightly longer travel distance than the Quinn. The traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, with 3.0 mm being the most shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Quinn a popular choice for gaming. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer the slightly longer travel distance offered by the Kiki Red for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is described as producing a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud, offering a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deep, resonant sound with a touch of character, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling bass tones and a clean, sharp, and immersive auditory experience. While the Kiki Red leans towards a clacky and medium-pitched sound, the Quinn delivers a bassier and more resonant typing experience. When installed in different keyboard setups and keycap combinations, these switches will provide distinct acoustics, with the Kiki Red having a sharper tone and the Quinn offering a richer sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and easy-to-press typing experience. The switch is noted for its smoothness during actuation, as well as its medium-light weighting that adds to the tactile feedback without being overly resistant. In comparison, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, and accented, offering a blend of responsive feedback and smooth key travel. This switch aims to provide a lively and uniform typing sensation, with a balanced tactile bump for precision and clarity. Users can expect a more elastic and prominent tactility from the Quinn switch, enhancing the overall typing feel compared to the Kiki Red.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Kiki Red emphasizes a clacky and medium-light typing experience with smoother actuation, the Quinn offers a bassier and more resonant sound profile alongside a snappy and bouncy tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for auditory feedback, key feel, and typing style. It's important to consider the overall keyboard setup, including keycaps and case material, to optimize the sound and feel of either switch for the best typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a light actuation force, a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, and a smooth and frictionless feel, the Kiki Red switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, a deep and resonant sound profile, and a combination of crisp tactility and smooth key travel, the Quinn switch would suit your typing style better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing performance.
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