Zuoce Lavender vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch is best known for its exceptional smoothness and satisfying clacky sound signature, making it a popular choice for those looking for an easy-to-press switch with a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of tactile bump and deep, resonant sound profile, providing users with a precise and crisp typing experience with added character. While the Lavender may appeal to those who prefer a smooth and clacky typing feel, the Quinn is a great option for those seeking a tactile bump and rich sound with each keystroke. 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
48g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Quinn both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Lavender features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. While POM is known for its pleasing sound, nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a different typing experience for users.
Despite the difference in housing materials, the Lavender and Quinn switches both offer a unique sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The POM top and bottom housings of the Lavender contribute to a deeper sound, while the nylon housings of the Quinn provide a fuller and rounder sound. Both switches offer users a distinct typing experience that is influenced by the choice of housing material. Whether it's the muted sound of POM or the fuller sound of nylon, users are sure to enjoy the unique characteristics of each switch.
When comparing the two switches, it is evident that the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing feel. While the Lavender's POM housings create a deeper and more muted sound, the Quinn's nylon housings offer a fuller and rounder sound. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during bottom-out, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Both switches provide a unique typing experience that showcases the benefits of their respective housing materials.
Weight
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Quinn's heavier 59 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lavender is still lighter at 53 grams, while the Quinn is heavier at 67 grams. This means that the Lavender provides a softer typing experience overall, while the Quinn offers a more substantial and tactile feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lavender for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may prefer the Quinn for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the keys travel when pressed. Users who prefer a consistent travel distance across all keys will appreciate the uniformity of both switches. Whether you choose the Lavender or the Quinn, you can expect to get consistent results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Zuoce Lavender switch offers a clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy keypresses that are crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch provides a bassy and resonant sound, adding a deep and rich tone to each keystroke. While the Lavender switch focuses on a sharper sound, the Quinn switch delivers a more immersive auditory experience with its unique combination of sound characteristics. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them would depend on whether you prefer a clacky or bassy sound during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Zuoce Lavender switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended usage. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch is known for its snappy and polished feel, providing a responsive and lively typing experience with smooth key travel. With an accented and buttery sensation, the Quinn switch offers a balance of tactility and smoothness that enhances the overall typing feel. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback, so your preference between an easy-to-press or snappy and polished feel would guide your decision.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Quinn switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender switch emphasizes a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel, while the Quinn switch provides a bassy and resonant sound with a snappy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on your preference for sound and feel during typing sessions. Keep in mind that other factors like keyboard layout, keycaps, and personal typing style can also influence your overall typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Lavender linear switch or the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth, clacky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Lavender switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp, tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique bassy and clacky sound profile, the Quinn switch could be more suitable. Consider your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision to ensure a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing needs.
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