Gateron Quinn vs. Outemu Red Panda

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Quinn and the Outemu Red Panda, both of which are tactile switches. The Quinn switches are well-known for their crisp, light switch-like tactility and their deep, resonant sound profile, making typing on them a truly immersive experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda switches offer a lighter amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While the Quinn switches provide a precise and clean tactile bump, the Red Panda switches offer a raindrop-like sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Quinn Tactile

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and the Outemu Red Panda switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, enables a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the clear housing of the Red Panda allows for better RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing. Overall, while both switches offer unique sound characteristics, the Quinn exhibits a duller and rounder sound compared to the Red Panda's higher-pitched and crisper tones.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Quinn and the Red Panda switches share the use of nylon as the material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a similar sound profile for both switches, providing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, has a greater capacity to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches.

Considering the overall impact of the housing materials, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in sound production and feedback. The qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing's characteristics dominate the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Quinn and the Red Panda may differ in their housing materials, the overall experience of typing on these switches might still yield similar results due to the shared nylon bottom housing and the distinct impact of the top and bottom housings on sound production.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that they have some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Quinn is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classified as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Red Panda is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classified as medium.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Red Panda would be a suitable choice. Its lighter actuation and bottom out forces make it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. The lighter weight reduces fatigue and allows for smoother and faster keystrokes.

However, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For such individuals, the Quinn would be a better option. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of solidity while typing. This can be particularly beneficial for those who prioritize accuracy and precision in their keystrokes.

In summary, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference. The Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it is worth mentioning. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, either switch would provide similar results. However, it is important to note that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. Therefore, if you prefer a more substantial key press, the Gateron Quinn with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better option for you.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Quinn tactile switch is best known for its unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users are greeted with a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. The sound of the Quinn switch can be described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant. Bassy switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Clacky switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, characterized by crisp, bright, and percussive tones. Low-pitched switches feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Lastly, typing on the Quinn switch provides a resonant sound profile with a clean and sharp auditory experience. When comparing the sound of the Gateron Quinn switch to the Outemu Red Panda switch, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing experience. Snappy switches are super responsive and enhance the typing experience to feel more alive. Polished switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Accented switches provide a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Butter switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Lastly, creamy switches offer a silky typing sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys, melting into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. With its qualities standing in a safe, middle-ground zone, the Red Panda switch provides a sound and feel that most users will find approachable.

Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Quinn switch stands out with its crisp, light tactility, deep resonant sound profile encompassing bassy and clacky characteristics, as well as its snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience. While both switches have their unique qualities, it is important to consider personal preferences and how they may align with the desired typing experience. If a user is looking for a typing experience with deeper and richer sound profiles, sharper and snappier keystrokes, as well as responsive and smooth key travel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be a suitable choice. However, if a more gentle typing experience with approachable sound and feel is preferred, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a suitable option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you value a unique combination of light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With its specially designed nylon housing, you can expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. The Quinn switch is described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant, offering a deeper and richer sound with a clean and sharp auditory experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile feel and a satisfying thocky sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be more suitable. These switches provide a light-medium amount of tactility and a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound with a clackier and higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda switch is described as thocky, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Quinn and Outemu Red Panda tactile switches depends on your personal preferences for tactile feel and sound profile. If you prioritize a crisp and immersive typing experience with a unique combination of light tactile feedback and deep resonance, go for the Gateron Quinn. If you prefer a lighter tactile feel and a satisfying thocky sound, the Outemu Red Panda would be a great option. Consider your desired typing experience and sound preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more