Haimu Orange Sea vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the tactile feedback of certain switches and the seamless typing experience offered by others. The Haimu Orange Sea switches present a linear option, renowned for their impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature. This makes them ideal for users seeking a silent, uninterrupted experience, perfect for both gaming and quiet office environments. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn switches stand out as a tactile choice that combines crisp, light tactility with a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. With a precise and clean tactile bump, the Quinn switches offer an engaging typing experience that adds character with each keystroke. While the Orange Sea focuses on smoothness and quiet operation, the Quinn impresses with its rich auditory feedback and tactile sensation. 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
37g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Haimu Orange Sea and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct auditory experiences due to their differing top housings. The Orange Sea utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn's top housing is made from nylon, a classic switch housing material that provides a deeper and fuller sound. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is softer and absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, the two switches significantly diverge in terms of sound characterization based on their top housing materials.
When we examine the bottom housings, however, both the Haimu Orange Sea and the Gateron Quinn employ nylon, leveling the playing field in terms of the sound profile elicited by the lower portion of the switches. Since nylon is common to both, users will experience a deeper and fuller sound regardless of the top housing differences. The presence of nylon in both switches ensures that the bottom-out sound and feel during typing will share this characteristic. As such, even though the auditory display differs when engaging with the top of the switches, the impact of the nylon bottom housing creates a common ground for a consistent typing experience below.
In summary, while the Haimu Orange Sea and Gateron Quinn switches exhibit contrasting acoustic profiles due to their top housing materials, the shared nylon composition in their bottom housings results in similar auditory qualities. The polycarbonate top of the Orange Sea provides a crisper sound that complements its intended RGB aesthetics, while the nylon top of the Quinn delivers a deeper tonal quality preferred by some typists. Ultimately, despite their differences, the similarities in bottom housing material help create a cohesive experience, allowing users to appreciate both switches while benefiting from the shared characteristics of nylon in the fundamental aspects of sound and feel during typing engagements.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Orange Sea features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a lighter touch, ideal for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Quinn switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. The significant disparity in actuation and bottom out forces means that the Orange Sea is the lighter option, while the Quinn is the heavier one, offering a distinct typing experience. If one were to choose between the two based on typing style, those who prefer a light, swift action would gravitate towards the Orange Sea, while those who like a more forceful keystroke would likely opt for the Quinn.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, the Orange Sea measures 3.6 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive feel, the Quinn might be the better option, as its shorter distance allows for quicker actuation—suitable for gamers aiming for faster response times. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea offers a bit more depth, which some users may prefer for a more substantial tactile experience when pressing the keys. Therefore, if you value a deeper feel, the Orange Sea would be the preferable choice, while the Quinn might cater better to those favoring a snappier, more agile typing experience.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch is characterized by a neutral sound signature, allowing for a typing experience that remains unobtrusive and focused. Users can expect a more muted auditory feedback that doesn’t distract from the task at hand. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a more expressive auditory experience. With a deep, resonant sound profile, it provides a rich and immersive acoustic feedback that can elevate the overall typing experience. The Quinn’s combination of clacky and low-pitched sounds, alongside its bassy elements, results in a vibrant and articulate auditory signature that can be satisfying for users who enjoy dynamic sound in their typing.
Regarding feel, the Haimu Orange Sea boasts an impeccably smooth typing sensation, perfect for users who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes. This smooth feel is ideal for rapid typing, allowing for effortless key presses without any distractions from tactile bumps. The Gateron Quinn, on the other hand, presents a snappy feel with crisp tactile feedback that actively engages the typist. The combination of polished characteristics results in a responsive and lively typing experience that encourages accuracy and speed. This tactile bump, while clean and pronounced, allows for a distinct transition between pressed and unpressed states without being overwhelming, fitting neatly into the medium tactile category.
In summary, when comparing the Haimu Orange Sea and Gateron Quinn switches, we find distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Orange Sea provides a smooth, neutral auditory experience suited for focused typing, while the Quinn delivers a rich, resonant sound combined with a snappy tactile feedback that enhances engagement. Depending on your preferences, you can choose either switch to achieve a satisfying typing experience, whether you lean towards a more understated and smooth setup or one that is lively and immersive.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a typing experience that emphasizes a smooth, effortless feel with a lighter actuation force, the Orange Sea is an excellent choice. Its neutral sound signature means it’s suitable for environments where you want minimal distraction, making it ideal for both focused work and gaming sessions. In contrast, if you enjoy a more tactile feedback with a medium-heavy resistance and a rich auditory experience, the Gateron Quinn could be the ideal fit for you. The crisp tactile bump and unique sound profile will enhance your typing satisfaction, especially if you appreciate the immersive quality of a deeper, bassy sound. Ultimately, your decision should reflect not only your typing style but also what sensory characteristics you value most in your keyboard experience.
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