Outemu Silent White vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent White and the Gateron Quinn offer unique experiences for users. The Silent White is a linear switch, known for its quiet operation and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch, celebrated for its crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile. While the Silent White provides a serene typing experience, the Quinn delivers a more engaging and character-filled typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the Gateron Quinn, one key difference lies in the top housing material used. The Silent White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer plastic composition. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches showcases how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the Silent White and the Quinn use nylon for this component. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, despite using the same housing material for the bottom, the switches may still exhibit variations in sound and feel based on other factors such as stem material or overall design. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights the importance of considering all aspects of a switch, rather than just focusing on individual components, when determining the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent White and the Gateron Quinn will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While the Silent White’s polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper and resonant sound, the Quinn’s nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, showcasing the importance of the complete switch design in achieving desired auditory and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help guide your decision in selecting the ideal switch for your typing needs.
Weight
The Outemu Silent White linear 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. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Silent White requiring 60 grams and the Quinn needing 67 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent White switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Quinn switch, which provides a stronger push force for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, we find that the Silent White has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience. The difference of 0.1 mm in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and may not be noticeable to most users. Ultimately, whether you choose the Silent White or the Quinn, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall 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 Silent White 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 Silent White switch is known for its quiet operation, lacking any distinct characteristics. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch provides a unique and rich sound profile, with a deep and resonant tone that adds personality to each keystroke. The Quinn switch offers a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound, creating an immersive auditory experience for users. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced by both switches.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent White switch does not have any specific descriptors available. However, the Gateron Quinn switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These qualities indicate that the Quinn switch offers a responsive, smooth, elastic, noticeable tactile feedback, and effortless typing experience. The switch provides a unique combination of tactile sensations that cater to a variety of typing preferences, making it a versatile option for users looking for a tactile switch with different characteristics.
Overall, the Outemu Silent White and Gateron Quinn switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent White switch excels in providing a quiet typing experience without specific sound or feel descriptors, the Quinn switch stands out for its rich and immersive sound profile and unique tactile sensations. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the quieter and neutral Silent White switch or the more expressive and tactile Quinn switch for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Silent White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound, the Quinn switches would be an ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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