Outemu Milk Tea vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Quinn stand out as popular options in the tactile switch category. The Milk Tea is known for its smooth feel and is categorized as a light tactile switch. On the other hand, the Quinn switches are acclaimed for their unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. While the Milk Tea offers a standard typing experience, the Quinn switch provides a more immersive and character-filled typing experience with its rich sound profile. Each keystroke on the Quinn switch delivers a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
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
Ly
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
The Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Quinn both feature nylon top and bottom housings, which means that they share similar qualities in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon material used in both switches is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing, due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to other housing materials. However, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing is described as offering a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks, while the Quinn's nylon top housing is said to provide a sound that is deep and full.
While both switches share the nylon material for their top and bottom housings, there are subtle differences in the sound signature they produce. The Outemu Milk Tea's Ly top housing is known for its bright sound signature and resonant clacks, creating a unique typing experience for users. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn's nylon top housing is said to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, adding a different dimension to the typing experience. These differences in sound can be attributed to the specific properties of the material used in each switch's housing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Quinn may come down to personal preference and the type of sound profile an individual is looking for in their typing experience. Both switches offer the benefits of nylon housing materials, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Whether you prefer the bright and resonant clacks of the Milk Tea or the deeper and fuller sound of the Quinn, both switches provide a unique typing experience that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, it is important to consider how the specific qualities of each housing material will impact your overall typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea is lighter in both aspects. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Quinn has a higher actuation force of 59 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Quinn is 67 grams, which is not specified for the Milk Tea. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milk Tea would be the more suitable option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Quinn offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Tea tactile 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 slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Milk Tea switch. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Quinn switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Milk Tea switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the desired travel distance for a more satisfying 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 Outemu Milk Tea 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 Tea tactile switch is known for being silent, allowing for a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as having a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile. This means that with each keystroke on the Quinn switch, users can expect a deep and rich sound that adds depth and character to their typing sessions. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milk Tea tactile switch's tactile feel is not described, so it remains unknown. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for its snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy tactile sensations. This means that typing on the Quinn switch will provide a responsive and smooth typing experience with an added level of tactility that is both prominent and satisfying.
Overall, if one is looking for a silent typing experience, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if someone desires a switch with a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be the ideal option. Both switches offer different qualities that cater to varying preferences and typing styles, ensuring users can find a switch that suits their needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a switch with a unique combination of crisp, light tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn switch would be a great choice for you. The immersive sound experience and precise tactile bump of the Quinn switches make them stand out in terms of both sound and feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a specific bottom out force preference or if you prefer a different sound or feel profile, the Outemu Milk Tea switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Choose the switch that best fits your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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