Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Quinn mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lightning Silver V3 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience with the added bonus of enhanced RGB illumination thanks to its light diffuser. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a different experience with a crisp tactile bump and deep, resonant sound profile due to their nylon housings. While the Lightning Silver V3 may appeal to those who prefer a lighter, silkier typing feel, the Quinn switches are perfect for individuals seeking a snappy, bassy, and polished tactile feedback. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Quinn, one key difference is in their top housing material. The Lightning Silver V3 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Quinn features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a certain type of sound feedback from their keyboard switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Quinn offer different qualities based on their housing materials. The Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Quinn's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound profiles between the two switches can cater to users with varying preferences in terms of the sound feedback they desire when typing on their keyboards.
Overall, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Quinn each have unique housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by providing distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3 lend to a sharper and clearer sound, while the nylon top and bottom housing of the Quinn offer a deeper and fuller sound. Regardless of the specific housing materials used, users can expect a customized typing experience based on their preference for sound feedback and overall typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium range. The Lightning Silver V3 has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Quinn has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Typists who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3 for its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Quinn with its heavier forces. Both switches provide a balanced feel, with the Lightning Silver V3 offering a lighter touch and the Quinn providing a slightly heavier touch for those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same for both switches. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and response time when using either switch. The equal travel distance of 3.4 mm for both switches demonstrates that they are designed to provide a consistent typing experience, making them suitable options for those looking for a specific travel distance in their keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a crisp and bright auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a deep and resonant sound, adding a rich and immersive aspect to typing. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the Lightning Silver V3 leans towards a sharper sound, while the Quinn delivers a deeper and more resonant tone. In terms of feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is known for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. In contrast, the Quinn offers a snappy and polished feel, with a lively and bouncy feedback sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that offers a silky smooth typing experience, then the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a combination of crisp, light tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile that offers a clean and precise tactile bump, then the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the way to go. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your decision to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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