Gateron Quinn vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch. The Quinn switches are beloved for their unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. Each keystroke offers a rich and immersive sound, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switches are praised for their innovative design. They boast a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The type feel of these switches is silky smooth, striking a balance between being polished and not over-polished. Whether you prefer a bouncy and tactile typing experience or a subdued and smooth sensation, these switches cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Quinn and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear differ in their housing materials. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear produces a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both housings contribute to enhancing the overall sound experience of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Quinn and the Semi-Silent Linear feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality is shared between the two switches, creating a similar auditory experience when typing on them. The bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and the overall feel when pressing down on the switch. Therefore, both switches will provide a comparable tactile experience in this aspect.
It's important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the characteristics of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom. When pressing down on either the Quinn or the Semi-Silent Linear, you will primarily experience the qualities of the bottom housing. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key will be influenced more by the top housing. Despite these distinctions, both switches offer unique benefits in their respective housing materials that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing and contrasting the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that there are some differences in weight. Weight is a crucial aspect to consider, as it affects typing comfort and the overall typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is a suitable choice. With an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a slightly heavier feel. While the actuation force is not specified, the bottom out force is 62 grams, which falls within the medium range. Therefore, for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a better option. Overall, both switches offer a satisfactory typing experience, providing similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, except for a slight difference in weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it can be observed that the Quinn has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as they offer faster response times. If speed and responsiveness are your priorities, then the Quinn with its 3.4 mm travel distance would be the more suitable option. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. In such cases, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear with its slightly longer 3.7 mm travel distance would be a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial key press 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile. This switch produces a bassy sound during key presses, providing a rich and immersive auditory experience. The sound is characterized by lower frequencies that resemble the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Quinn switch is described as clacky, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound. This gives the typing experience a crisp and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, it offers a dampened sound when pressed. This switch maintains a clacky bottom-out sound while having a whisper-quiet topping-out sound. This creates a more subtle and gentle sound profile compared to most switches. Overall, the Quinn switch provides a bassy and resonant sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued and semi-silent typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These descriptors indicate a switch that is highly responsive, smooth, and provides a spring-like feedback sensation. The keys have a lively and elastic feel, offering rebound when pressed. The polished finish and possible factory lubing ensure reduced friction and a sleek typing experience with smooth key travel. The Quinn switch also offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. This creates a medium tactile switch that is highly satisfying to type on. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. This switch provides a more gentle and approachable typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in seamless and effortless typing. The polished finish and possible factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Quinn switch delivers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a snappy, buttery, polished, and mild feel.
Comparing the available information, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Quinn switch stands out for its deep and resonant sound profile, characterized by bass tones and a sharp clacky sound. It offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel, providing a highly responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued sound, with a gentle and semi-silent typing experience. It delivers a snappy, buttery, and polished feel, ensuring effortless and smooth key presses. While their subjective qualities differ, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique combinations of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility with a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is definitely worth considering. With its specially designed nylon housings, each keystroke on these switches produces a rich and immersive sound, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. Additionally, you can expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump with the Quinn switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent linear switch that provides a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch would be a great choice. Its type feel is silky smooth, offering a satisfying typing experience without being overly polished. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is also known for its subdued sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and for use in various environments such as at home or work. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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