KTT Miaowu vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Quinn stand out as popular options. The Miaowu switch is a linear switch known for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to the POK material used in its stem. In contrast, the Quinn switch is a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile due to its specially designed nylon housings. While the Miaowu is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Quinn switch boasts a variety of characteristics such as 'Snappy', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Accented', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', and 'Resonant'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, but 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
43g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Quinn, one key difference lies in their top housing materials. The Miaowu features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. While polycarbonate is stiffer and more resonant, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder tone. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users of these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Miaowu and Quinn opt for nylon. This classic switch housing material creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the overall sound profiles may still vary due to the different top housing materials used. However, the similar choice of nylon for the bottom housing suggests that both switches prioritize a certain level of sound quality and feel for their users.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique combination of sound profiles and tactile feedback when using these switches. While the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound upon key release, the Quinn's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller tone during typing. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a consistent depth and fullness to the sound profile, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for each switch contribute to their distinct sound signatures and overall typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch are quite different. The Miaowu has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Quinn has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The Miaowu switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Quinn switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches provide different levels of feedback due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. In general, those seeking a lighter typing experience should opt for the Miaowu switch, while those wanting a heavier push feel should choose the Quinn switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Miaowu switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more profound key press may opt for the Quinn switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for its bassy and resonant sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Miaowu being more on the sharp and bright side, while the Quinn offers a deeper and more immersive sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively keys that rebound when pressed. On the contrary, the Gateron Quinn switch is known for its snappy and polished feel, offering super responsiveness and a smooth, refined finish for a sleek typing experience. Additionally, the Quinn switch is also described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Miaowu being bouncy and lively, while the Quinn is snappy and polished.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Miaowu switch is characterized by its clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Quinn switch stands out for its bassy and rich sound profile, as well as its snappy and polished tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference in sound and feel, as both options provide unique typing experiences. If you prefer a sharper sound and bouncy feel, the Miaowu switch is the way to go, while if you enjoy a deeper, more resonant sound and snappy, polished feel, the Quinn switch would be the ideal choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Miaowu linear switch or the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, you should take into account the bottom out force, sound, and feel preferences. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth keystroke and enhanced stem stability, the Miaowu might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, the Quinn could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
