Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Gateron Quinn offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Purple is known for its clicky feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy the audible confirmation of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Quinn switch provides a tactile experience with a crisp bump and a deep, resonant sound profile that adds a touch of character to typing. While the Dustproof Purple is categorized as a clicky switch, the Quinn falls into the tactile category. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that make them appealing to different users. 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
55g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Gateron Quinn switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. However, the top housings of the two switches differ, with the Dustproof Purple utilizing a polycarbonate top housing to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material is stiffer compared to nylon, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. This contrast in top housing materials affects the overall sound experience of the switches, providing users with different auditory feedback during typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of translucent polycarbonate in the top housing of the Dustproof Purple switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch may not offer the same level of visual customization due to its opaque nylon top housing. While both switches offer a unique sound profile based on their housing materials, the decision between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of both sound and visual preferences. Overall, the differences in housing materials between the two switches provide users with distinct typing experiences based on the sound and feel of the switches.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Gateron Quinn switches both offer a tactile typing experience that is influenced by the combination of their top and bottom housings. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials ensures that users can feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, while experiencing the sound influenced by the top housing when releasing a key. This dual interaction between the two housing materials creates a dynamic typing experience that caters to users who appreciate both sound and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch both fall into the category of medium-heavy switches when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Purple has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams, while both require a bottom out force of 65 grams and 67 grams respectively. This means that the Quinn switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience overall. Weight preferences vary among individuals, with some favoring lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others prefer the stronger push feel of heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Quinn switch has a shorter travel distance than the Dustproof Purple switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Quinn switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Dustproof Purple switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
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 Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is known for its lack of distinct sound characteristics, making it a quieter option compared to other clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as having a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile. With the Quinn switch, users can enjoy a deep and rich auditory experience with each key press, adding a unique flair to their typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Purple switch's tactile feedback is unspecified. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn switch offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing experience. With these characteristics, users can expect a responsive and lively feel when typing on the Quinn switch, thanks to features like smooth key travel, moderate tactility, and a sense of rebound when pressing the keys. This smooth and refined typing sensation can enhance the overall typing comfort and speed for users.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Gateron Quinn switches offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Purple switch provides a quieter typing experience with undefined sound and feel characteristics, the Gateron Quinn switch stands out for its deep and resonant sound profile as well as the snappy and polished feel it offers. Depending on your preference for auditory immersion and tactile feedback, you can choose between the two switches to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, your choice may ultimately come down to the sound and feel preferences that suit your typing style and preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a deep and resonant sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, the Quinn switches may be the perfect fit for you. With their crisp, light tactility and rich sound, the Quinn switches can provide a unique and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a distinctive feel and sound, the Dustproof Purple switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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