Gazzew LT vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are several factors to consider, including the particular characteristics you desire in a typing experience. Two popular choices that offer unique features are the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Quinn. The Gazzew LT switches are known for their delightful lilac hue and their auditory symphony of deep, resonant "thockiness." With a seamless glide and a low-pitched sound profile, typing on the LT switches is a truly immersive experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches offer a different blend of qualities. With their specially designed nylon housings, they provide a crisp, light switch-like tactility combined with a deep, resonant sound. Each keystroke on the Quinn switches delivers a precise and clean tactile bump, adding character to the typing experience. Both switches offer their own distinct advantages, but let's delve deeper into their specific attributes to help you choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Quinn have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize a softer plastic for their top housing, with the LT using a proprietary Gazzew blend and the Quinn using nylon. This softness contributes to a deep and rich sound profile in both switches. However, the Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," is specifically designed to deliver this sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Quinn is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches again employ a softer plastic material. The LT utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend, while the Quinn uses nylon. This softness allows the housing to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. However, it should be noted that the Gazzew blend bottom housing is described as delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, suggesting that it may have a slightly different sound characteristic compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Quinn.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This means that the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more noticeable when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Quinn may have similar sound profiles due to their soft housing materials, the distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom housing may result in subtle differences in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium-heavy category. However, the specific force measurements for the LT switch are unavailable, while the Quinn switch has a slightly lower actuation force of 59 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Quinn tactile switch, as its actuation force is lower. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals who type for extended periods, such as in work environments or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the LT linear switch, as it potentially has a heavier actuation force. This heavier force can provide a stronger push feel, which some users find preferable for their typing needs.
Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the LT and Quinn switches may vary slightly, they both fall into the medium-heavy range. Therefore, individuals seeking similar results in terms of switch weight and typing experience can expect comparable outcomes from these two switches.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have slight differences in their travel distances. The LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these distances are slightly shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making the LT a popular choice for those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In contrast, the Quinn with its 3.4 mm travel distance offers a slightly deeper feel when pressing down on a key, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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, both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer a deep and rich sound profile. The LT switches, with their lilac hue, provide an auditory symphony of deep thockiness. The sound can be described as bassy and thocky, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep resonant sound. The sound can be characterized as clacky, crisp, bright, and percussive. Expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump as well. Both switches have a low-pitched tone, offering a bass-heavy and mellow sound. It's important to note that the sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, specific information regarding the feel of the Gazzew LT linear switch is unknown. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a range of descriptors that give an indication of its feel. The switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. It is also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This smoothness reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. The Quinn switch is also bouncy, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation during typing. It has a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the switch can be described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. These descriptors suggest that the Quinn switch offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the LT switch is best known for its deep and resonant thockiness, the Quinn switch offers a combination of crisp tactility and a deep resonant sound. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, adding richness and depth to the typing experience. When it comes to feel, specific information about the LT switch is unavailable, but the Quinn switch offers a range of descriptors including snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, indicating a smooth and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gazzew LT switches are an excellent choice. These switches are best known for their lilac hue and the deep and resonant thockiness they provide during typing. With every keystroke, you'll experience a seamless glide and a satisfying auditory symphony. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a similar bottom out force, the Gateron Quinn switches are worth considering. These switches offer a unique combination of crisp and light switch-like tactility, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. Moreover, the Quinn switches produce a deep and resonant sound profile that adds character to your typing experience. Ultimately, the LT switches provide a more bass-heavy and low-pitched sound, while the Quinn switches have a mix of bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profiles. When it comes to the feel, the LT switches don't have specific descriptors mentioned, whereas the Quinn switches are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. Consider your sound and feel preferences to make an informed decision between these two switches.
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