Outemu Gold vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Outemu Gold is best known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying audible click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn is renowned for its unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, making typing a more immersive experience. While the Gold switch offers a traditional clicky feel, the Quinn switch provides a precise and clean bump with a rich sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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 Gold features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and more resonant sound profile compared to the Gateron Quinn's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Gold's top housing provides a crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn's nylon top housing offers a softer and rounder sound, absorbing more sound for a duller sound profile. Both materials have their unique characteristics, catering to different preferences in sound profile.
Both the Gold and the Quinn utilize nylon for their bottom housings, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This shared feature between the two switches highlights the importance of the bottom housing in impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. While the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience by influencing the tactile feedback and sound upon pressing down on the switch.
Overall, the housing materials in the Outemu Gold and Gateron Quinn switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing in the Gold provides a crisper and sharper sound, ideal for those seeking a higher-pitched typing experience with clear housing for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Quinn's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound for a softer and rounder profile. Both switches share nylon bottom housings, contributing to a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Gold or a fuller sound with the Quinn, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold switch requires 60 grams, while the Quinn switch needs 67 grams, making the Quinn switch slightly heavier. The lighter actuation force of the Gold switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the Quinn switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Gold offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Quinn. Gamers who prioritize faster response times might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Quinn, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gold. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch lacks specific descriptors, making it difficult to pinpoint its sound profile accurately. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for offering a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile. This combination results in a deep, rich, percussive, and immersive auditory experience that enhances the typing sensation. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch also depends on factors like keyboard construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch does not have specific descriptors to outline its tactile feedback. However, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. This means users can expect a responsive, smooth, lively, and prominent tactile bump during keystrokes, creating a satisfying and comfortable typing experience. The additional lubrication in creamy switches provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation that can enhance the overall feel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of a deep, resonant sound profile and a snappy, polished, and bouncy tactile feedback. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Keep in mind that individual results may vary based on factors like keyboard setup and user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a deep, resonant sound profile with crisp tactility, the Quinn switches would be a great choice for you. The unique combination of the Quinn switches offers a rich and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a specific feel and sound profile, the Outemu Gold switches might be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths and it's important to consider what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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