Outemu Milk Blue vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and Gateron Quinn offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Milk Blue is a clicky switch known for its satisfying audible click with each keystroke, adding a sense of feedback and responsiveness to typing. On the other hand, the Quinn switch is a tactile option that provides a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the Milk Blue excels in providing a clicky and tactile sensation, the Quinn switch offers a smooth yet pronounced tactile bump with a rich sound profile. 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
50g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Both the Outemu Milk Blue and Gateron Quinn switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Milk Blue uses polycarbonate while the Quinn uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Quinn elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of the material.
The decision to use polycarbonate for the top housing of the Milk Blue and nylon for the top housing of the Quinn also impacts the aesthetic aspect of the switches. Polycarbonate, being translucent, is more suitable for RGB lighting applications, making the Milk Blue a visually appealing option for those who prioritize RGB customization. On the other hand, the Quinn with its nylon top housing may not offer the same level of transparency for RGB lighting but still provides a classic feel and sound experience. Despite the differences in top housing material, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of nylon housing.
Overall, while the Outemu Milk Blue and Gateron Quinn switches differ in their choice of top housing material, they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Quinn creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a consistent aspect of their sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound, aesthetics, and RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in their weights. The Milk Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Quinn has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Quinn is 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unavailable. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Milk Blue switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Quinn switch for its heavier forces. Both switches provide their own unique typing experiences, but ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, we can see that the Milk Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of distance, the Quinn has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milk Blue. This means that the Quinn will provide a slightly quicker response time when typing or gaming, which may be preferred by those looking for a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue offers a bit more depth in travel distance, which some users may find to be more comfortable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Milk Blue 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 Milk Blue switch is known for its loud and clicky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deep, resonant sound that adds a unique character to the typing experience. The Quinn switch has a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile, creating a rich and immersive typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Milk Blue switch's tactile feel is not explicitly described, but typically clicky switches like this one provide a tactile bump while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a prominent amount of tactility. The Quinn switch's tactile feedback is crisp, clean, and precise, enhancing the typing sensation.
Overall, while the Outemu Milk Blue switch and Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer different sound and feel experiences, they both deliver high-quality performance in their respective categories. If you prefer a loud and clicky typing sound, the Milk Blue switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deep and resonant sound profile with a smooth and tactile typing feel, the Gateron Quinn switch would be an excellent option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch or the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a switch that provides a unique combination of crisp tactility and immersive sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a Specifically describe what the Milk Blue brings to the table and the Quinn. resonant and satisfying clicky sound profile without the need for extra force, then the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch might be the right choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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