Outemu Phoenix vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct experiences are the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch. The Phoenix switches are renowned for their unique under-skirt click mechanism, making them the most distinctive clicky switches available today. These switches provide a satisfying crunch and a polished feel, giving typists an exceptional typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a different experience with their specially designed nylon housings. They combine crisp and light switch-like tactility with a deep, resonant sound profile, adding character to every keystroke. These switches provide a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump, giving typists a sense of satisfaction while typing. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so that you can make the best decision on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
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 Phoenix and the Gateron Quinn differ in their housing materials, with the Phoenix featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Quinn utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate used in the Phoenix creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. This stiffer plastic also contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Quinn produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Given the difference in housing materials, the bottom housing of each switch will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix will contribute to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound, providing a more tactile typing experience. In contrast, the softer nylon bottom housing of the Quinn will lend itself to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound, creating a smoother and more cushioned typing feel. The differences in bottom housing materials allow users to choose according to their preferred typing experience.
When it comes to the sound produced when lifting a key, the top housing plays a more prominent role. Both the polycarbonate top housing of the Phoenix and the nylon top housing of the Quinn will impact the sound profile as keys are released. The polycarbonate top housing of the Phoenix will deliver a sharp and resonant sound, enhancing the overall acoustic experience. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the Quinn will produce a rounder and quieter sound as keys are released, resulting in a more subdued and mellow typing sound.
In summary, the Outemu Phoenix's polycarbonate housing materials create a sharper and more resonant sound profile, while the Gateron Quinn's nylon housing materials produce a deeper and duller sound. The differences in bottom housing materials contribute to variations in bottom-out sound and typing feel, with the Phoenix offering a more tactile experience and the Quinn providing a smoother and cushioned feel. On the other hand, both switches' top housing materials affect the sound when keys are released, with the Phoenix delivering a sharp and resonant sound, while the Quinn produces a softer and quieter sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Phoenix switch is unavailable, which means we do not have the specific gram measurement. However, the Quinn switch has an actuation force of 59 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Phoenix switch.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Phoenix switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of resistance. On the other hand, the Quinn switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range.
When considering weight preferences, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Quinn switch, as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. This can be beneficial for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Phoenix switch with its medium actuation force.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch differ slightly, both switches fall within the medium range for bottom out force. Therefore, if one is seeking a similar typing experience in terms of force, either option would provide comparable results.
Travel distance
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have very similar travel distances. The Phoenix has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. These shorter distances offer a more responsive feel, making them preferable for those who prioritize speed. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In this case, the switch with a longer travel distance, the Gateron Quinn, would be a better choice as it provides a greater depth of keypress. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a quick and snappy response or a more substantial and satisfying keypress.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, the Phoenix switch is best known for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, which produces a crystalline and sparkling sound profile. It can be described as crunchy, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. It has a bassy and clacky sound, characterized by a lower frequency range and a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. Additionally, the Quinn switch provides a clean and sharp sound with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Nevertheless, both switches offer distinct and enjoyable sound profiles, catering to different preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch is characterized as snappy, indicating its super responsive nature. This responsiveness is often achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the Quinn switch is also described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, as well as accented, signifying a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Furthermore, the Quinn switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience, which can be attributed to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. These qualities contribute to a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant tactile experience with their respective qualities, catering to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Phoenix switch is best known for its crystalline and sparkling click mechanism, providing a crunchy sound, the Quinn switch combines crisp tactility with a deep and resonant sound profile. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that enhance the typing experience. In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the Quinn switch is snappy, bouncy, and offers a buttery and creamy sensation. These qualities cater to different preferences and contribute to an enjoyable typing experience. It is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as keyboard boards and keycaps when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique clicky switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Phoenix switch is a great choice. With its under-skirt click mechanism, it offers a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Quinn switch is worth considering. It provides a crisp and light switch-like tactility, accompanied by a deep and resonant sound profile that adds character to your typing experience. Whether you prefer a crunchy and medium-pitched sound like stepping on piles of autumn leaves or a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, or resonant sound, the Phoenix and Quinn switches offer different sonic profiles to suit your preference. In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Meanwhile, the Quinn switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, offering varying levels of responsiveness, smoothness, rebound, and uniform typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch depends on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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