KTT Mint vs. Gateron Quinn

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options available, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the KTT Mint and the Gateron Quinn. The Mint is a linear switch known for its satisfyingly smooth feel and light typing experience. It provides a poppy thockiness, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle keystroke response. On the other hand, the Quinn offers a tactile switch with a deep, resonant sound profile. Its specially designed nylon housings create a crisp tactile bump, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that make them appealing, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Mint Linear

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$2.91 per 10

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Gateron Quinn keyboards have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Mint features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is stiffer, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Mint's translucent polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile.

Both keyboards share the same nylon material for their bottom housing. This shared material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both the Mint and the Quinn. Nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics enhances the overall typing experience by creating a more resonant sound. The bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches, thus contributing to the overall typing experience.

It is interesting to note that the choice of housing material in the top housing of each keyboard has distinct effects. The polycarbonate top housing in the Mint accentuates the sound when you release a key, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Quinn contributes to a more mellow and well-rounded sound profile when releasing keys. Although different in material, both top housings enhance the typing experience in their own way.

In summary, the KTT Mint and the Gateron Quinn keyboards differentiate themselves in terms of housing materials. The Mint's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, providing a visually appealing option for those interested in RGB lighting. Conversely, the Quinn's nylon top and bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more mellow typing experience. While they differ in sound and aesthetics, both keyboards utilize nylon for their bottom housing, contributing to a resonant and satisfying typing sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Mint requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Quinn demands a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. Similarly, the Mint has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Quinn has a bottom out force of 67 grams. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke would find the Mint switch to be a suitable choice, allowing for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and forceful typing experience would benefit from the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Quinn switch. In both cases, users can expect distinct results based on the varying forces, catering to their personal preferences.

Travel distance

The KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Quinn is the shorter option compared to the Mint. The Mint represents the more traditional and standard travel distance of 4.0 mm, which provides a balanced and familiar feel when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the Quinn offers a slightly shallower travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, often favored by gamers. It is important to note that shorter travel distances can feel more responsive, but for some individuals, it may feel too abrupt. Therefore, if one prefers a greater depth and a more substantial feel while typing, the Mint with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Mint linear switch is best known for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience. When typing on these switches, users can expect a poppy thockiness, thanks to their long pole stem. In terms of sound, the Mint is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched sound offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the neutral profile makes it suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Mint provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild feel offers a gentle typing experience, while the polished finish ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction.

On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. The nylon housings of these switches contribute to the rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. The Quinn switch provides a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump. In terms of sound, the Quinn switch is described as having a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile. The bassy sound offers a deeper and richer tone, while the clacky sound is sharp and snappy. The low-pitched sound adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone, and the resonant sound provides a clean and sharp auditory experience.

Based on the available information, the Mint and Quinn switches offer different sound and feel qualities. The Mint switch provides a smooth and mild typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers crisp tactility, a deep and resonant sound profile, along with a range of descriptors such as bassy, clacky, and low-pitched. Both switches offer polished finishes, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction.

If you are looking for switches with similar qualities, you can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and a polished feel from both the Mint and Quinn switches. However, the Mint switch provides a linear typing experience, while the Quinn switch offers tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the desired sound and feel characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting type feel, the KTT Mint is a great choice. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and long pole stem, you can expect a poppy thockiness when typing on these switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and specially designed nylon housings, the Quinn switches provide a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump as well as a rich and immersive sound that adds character to your typing experience. Overall, your choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize a smooth linear feel or a tactile experience with a deep sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Mint Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more