Gateron Quinn vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to tactile switches for mechanical keyboards, two popular options are the Gateron Quinn and the TTC Silent Brown. The Quinn switches are known for their unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound. With specially designed nylon housings, each keystroke produces a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets them apart is their muted sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and TTC Silent Brown switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The difference in housing materials directly affects the sound produced when pressing down or releasing a key, with the Quinn offering a softer sound upon release and the Silent Brown producing a crisper sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Quinn and the Silent Brown utilize nylon. The use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. This is due to nylon's characteristics as a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound when pressed down. Though the bottom housing material is the same, the top housing material still differentiates the overall sound profile between the two switches.
When both the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material are divided. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Thus, in the case of the Quinn and Silent Brown, the bottom housing's nylon composition contributes to a similar deep and full sound while the top housing material, nylon for Quinn and polycarbonate for Silent Brown, creates distinct sound characteristics upon key release.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Quinn and TTC Silent Brown switches share a nylon bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials significantly influences their sound profiles. The Quinn's nylon top housing produces a deeper, fuller, and slightly duller sound, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant sound. The split housing materials allow for different sound experiences when pressing down or releasing a key. However, the common use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar deep and full sound when typing on both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Quinn switch is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but still shares a similar medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches offer a substantial typing experience due to their medium-heavy bottom out forces. However, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Silent Brown switch with its lower actuation force. Conversely, those who desire a stronger push feel might lean towards the Quinn switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both of these switches fall within the range of shorter distances. Gamers, who require faster response times, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances, making the Quinn an ideal choice for those seeking high responsiveness. However, for individuals who appreciate a deeper key press, the Silent Brown with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of a deep, resonant sound profile with a crisp, bright, and percussive clacky sound. With each keystroke, users can expect a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. The sound profile is clean and sharp, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to the regular or clacky switches. It minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience. The switch is super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. It also has a polished and buttery finish, resulting in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a sleek typing experience. Additionally, the switch provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, giving it an accented feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, similar to the Gateron Quinn switch. It also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer their own unique qualities. The Gateron Quinn switch provides a distinct and immersive typing experience with a deep, resonant sound profile and a crisp tactile bump. It offers a snappy, bouncy, and accented feel due to its longer or dual-staged springs and polished finish. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild feel. Both switches provide a smooth and polished typing experience. However, it's important to consider personal preference, as the choice of switch ultimately depends on the user's desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it all comes down to your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a unique and immersive typing experience with a deep, resonant sound, the Quinn switch is the way to go. Its crisp and light switch-like tactility, combined with the specially designed nylon housings, result in a precise and clean tactile bump. The Quinn switch is best described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant, offering a rich and characterful sound profile.
On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a lighter level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown switch is a great choice. Its muted sound profile minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer and quieter typing experience. The Silent Brown switch can be described as buttery, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Take into consideration the unique characteristics of each switch and choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences and desired typing experience. Happy typing!
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