Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) 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 many options available, each with its own unique characteristics to consider. Two popular choices in the tactile switch category are the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the Gateron Quinn. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is renowned for its sharp tactile feel, offering a rare and premium typing experience. With a strong downstroke bump and an even sharper upstroke bump, these switches deliver a hypertactile sensation. They provide a distinctive and impactful typing experience with their medium-heavy feel and accentuated bottom-out. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a different tactile experience. With their specially designed nylon housings, they combine crisp, light switch-like tactility with a deep, resonant sound profile. Each keystroke produces a rich and immersive sound, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. Both switches offer precise and clean tactile bumps, but the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) leans towards a sharper and punchier sound, while the Quinn focuses on a deeper and more resonant sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PBT
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
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
The housing materials of the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the Gateron Quinn differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) utilizes a PBT top housing, which offers a neutral sound profile. Although it may lack crispness, it also avoids being dull. In contrast, the Quinn features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. Therefore, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the Gateron Quinn will produce noticeably distinct sound characteristics, with the former leaning towards neutral and the latter towards a deeper tone.
Likewise, the bottom housings of the two switches contribute to their overall sound profile. The PBT bottom housing of the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) maintains a similar characteristic to its top housing, resulting in a neutral sound profile without being overly crisp or dull. On the other hand, the Quinn's nylon bottom housing further enhances its deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the impact felt when pressing down on the switch. Since the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, the use of nylon in the Quinn provides a distinct tactile and audible experience compared to the more neutral PBT housing of the Moyu Black (Dark Jade).
In terms of releasing a key and the sound it produces, the top housing plays a significant role. While the PBT top housing of the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) maintains a neutral sound profile, it would have a less pronounced effect on the sound when a key is let go. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the Gateron Quinn would contribute to a deeper and fuller sound upon key release, following the trend of the switch's overall sound profile. Therefore, where sound on key release is concerned, the two switches will have noticeable differences, with the Quinn offering a more distinct and substantial sound compared to the relatively neutral sound of the Moyu Black (Dark Jade).
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Moyu Black has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Quinn requires slightly more force at 59 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Moyu Black would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This lighter actuation force is beneficial for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger and more substantial typing feel may opt for the Quinn switch, which has a heavier actuation force. This added force provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, ideal for users who appreciate a more robust and satisfying keystroke.
In terms of bottom out force, both the Moyu Black and Quinn switches share the same weight. This means that regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect a consistent level of resistance when pressing the keys all the way down, preventing accidental presses and ensuring a stable typing experience.
Overall, while there are slight variations in actuation force between the Moyu Black and Quinn tactile switches, their equal bottom out force ensures a similar result in terms of resistance and stability during typing. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) falls into the more traditional range with its 4.0 mm travel distance, offering a standard depth for key presses. On the other hand, the Quinn's 3.4 mm travel distance is on the shallower end, which is suitable for those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances may feel more abrupt for some individuals who prefer a deeper key pressing experience. Ultimately, the preference between the two switches depends on whether one values responsiveness or a more hearty depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the Gateron Quinn offer different profiles. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) produces a sharp, short, snappy, and punchy sound during the downstroke, thanks to its strong tactile bump. It has a clean and sharp resonance that immerses the user in an auditory experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switches are described as bassy, clacky, and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile resembling the depth and richness of bass tones. They also have a clean and sharp resonance, providing a precise, crisp, and bright sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the Gateron Quinn switches have slightly different characteristics. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is known for its medium-heavy feel and an abrupt, accentuated bottom-out. It offers an accented tactility, providing a prominent amount of feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Its sharp tactile bump is strong and crisp, allowing users to distinctly feel each and every keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, and accented. They offer a super responsive typing experience, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs. The keys have a lively feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. Additionally, the Quinn switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the Gateron Quinn switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) provides a sharp, short, snappy, and punchy sound with a strong downstroke tactile bump and an even sharper and stronger upstroke bump. It has a medium-heavy feel with an accentuated bottom-out and an accented tactility. On the other hand, the Quinn switches have a deep, resonant sound profile with characteristics such as bassy, clacky, and low-pitched. They offer a crisp tactile bump, snappy and polished feel, and a bouncy feedback sensation. While they differ in certain aspects, both switches provide unique and satisfying typing experiences. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose the switch that aligns with their desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider.
Firstly, if you are looking for a distinct and impactful typing experience, the Moyu Black switches are a great choice. Their medium-heavy feel, strong downstroke bump, and even sharper upstroke bump create a hypertactile sensation. The PBT top and bottom housing also contribute to a rare and premium typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp and clean tactile bump, the Quinn switches offer precisely that. With their specially designed nylon housings, they provide a unique combination of light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile.
In terms of sound, the Moyu Black switches produce a sharp, short, snappy, and punchy sound with each keystroke. They offer a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a variety of sound profiles. They can be described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant. This means that you can choose the sound profile that suits your preferences the best.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Moyu Black switches are known for their accented and sharp tactile feel. The strong and crisp tactile bump can be felt distinctly with each keypress. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a range of feel options. They can be described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. This means that you can choose the feel that provides the most responsive and enjoyable typing experience for you.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences. If you are looking for a distinctive and impactful typing experience with a sharp and punchy sound, the Moyu Blacks are a great option. However, if you prefer a crisp and clean tactile bump with a variety of sound and feel options, the Quinn switches may be more to your liking. Consider what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch and make your decision accordingly.