Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that maintains the slightly heavier feel of the classic MX Red switch but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn is a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, providing a rich and immersive typing experience. While the Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Quinn is known for being 'Snappy', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Accented', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', and 'Resonant'. 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
45g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Gateron Quinn switches utilize nylon housing for both the top and bottom components, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's absorbing nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches, creating a more immersive typing experience. The use of nylon in both switches helps to reduce sound levels, making them ideal choices for those in need of a quieter typing experience.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material for the top and bottom components, the impact each housing has on the overall sound and feel of the switch differs. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. This separation of qualities between the top and bottom housings gives each switch a unique typing experience, allowing for a more customized feel based on individual preferences.
Overall, the similarities in housing material between the Cherry MX Silent Red and Gateron Quinn switches result in comparable sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon material's absorbing properties, making them ideal choices for a quieter typing environment. While the impact of the top and bottom housings differs slightly in each switch, users can expect a consistent typing experience with a focus on reduced sound levels and a more immersive feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Silent Reds have a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Quinn's heavier 59 grams. As for the bottom out force, the Silent Red's force is unknown while the Quinn has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the MX Silent Red switch, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gateron Quinn switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Quinn switch the shorter option of the two. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers looking for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for some users. Both switches offer a smooth key press experience, but the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Quinn may appeal more to those seeking a fast and efficient typing or gaming experience, while the Cherry MX Silent Red may be better suited for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is best described as muted, thocky, and low-pitched, providing a softer and quieter typing experience with a deep and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is characterized by a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound, offering a rich and immersive auditory experience with a deep and sharp tone. While the Silent Red focuses on minimizing noise with a more subdued sound, the Quinn switch brings a touch of character and depth to each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is mainly described as textured, offering a unique tactile feedback with noticeable friction. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for being snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience with spring-like feedback and a refined finish. The combination of these qualities ensures that users will experience a lively and comfortable feel with each key press.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent Red excels in providing a quieter and slightly heftier typing experience with its muted and thocky sound profile and textured feel, the Quinn switch stands out with its deep and resonant bassy sound, snappy and polished feel. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users seeking either a quieter and smoother operation or a more immersive and dynamic sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch or the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and a muted, thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the MX Silent Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique combination of crisp tactility, rich sound, and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Quinn switch with its bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels and sounds best for your typing needs.
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