Gateron Quinn vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the TTC Silent Frozen, a linear switch. The Quinn offers a 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. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile, making it perfect for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. It is also super smooth and has a pillowy type feel, enhancing the overall comfort. While the Quinn boasts a snappy and bassy feel, the Silent Frozen provides a low-pitched and creamy experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron Quinn and TTC Silent Frozen switches differ significantly. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. Its softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Frozen utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches with RGB lighting.
Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Quinn and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen exhibit contrasting characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the Quinn contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, just like its nylon top housing. Its softness allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate bottom housing complements the translucent top housing and is ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and TTC Silent Frozen differ, one can expect similar results in certain aspects. Both switches utilize classic switch housing materials that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The nylon housings of the Quinn and the polycarbonate housings of the Silent Frozen both absorb sound, resulting in a more muted sound profile. Additionally, the translucent properties of both switches' top housing make them suitable for switches with RGB lighting. However, the specific qualities of the sound and aesthetic aspects may vary due to the distinct characteristics of nylon and polycarbonate materials used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are notable differences. The Quinn has a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. In contrast, the Silent Frozen offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Quinn switch requires a stronger push to activate the keystroke, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch is lighter, allowing for longer typing sessions without inducing fatigue. While the actuation and bottom out forces differ, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience for users, with the Quinn being heavier and the Silent Frozen being lighter.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Silent Frozen has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it can make a noticeable impact on the overall feel of the switch. In terms of comparison, both switches have shorter travel distances than the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Quinn at 3.4 mm. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more tactile and hearty typing experience may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm offered by the Silent Frozen switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends 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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 unique combination of qualities. It is described as having a deep and resonant sound profile, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. This results in a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. The sound can be characterized as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is known for its extremely quiet sound profile. It produces a soft and muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is also described as having a low-pitched and thocky sound. While they have different sound profiles, both switches offer enjoyable and satisfying auditory experiences. With the Gateron Quinn, users can expect a deeper and richer sound, while the TTC Silent Frozen provides a quiet and satisfying thock. However, as with all switches, the sound produced will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing experience. These switches are designed to be super responsive, providing a lively and spring-like feedback sensation. They also have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the keys have a bouncy feel, offering rebound when pressed. The accented tactility provides a prominent amount of feedback without being overwhelming. Meanwhile, the creaminess of the switch allows for a seamless and effortless typing sensation, as if gliding across the keys with ease. Similarly, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch offers a creamy and buttery typing experience. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and uniform typing sensation. It is also described as feathery, meaning it requires little exertion from the fingers due to its exceptionally light actuation force. This reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Quinn switch provides a crisp and light tactile bump with a deep and resonant sound profile. It offers a precise, clean, and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch offers an extremely quiet sound profile and a smooth, pillowy feel. It is characterized by its thocky sound and feathery typing sensation. Both switches bring their own unique qualities to the table, providing options for users based on their preferences. If you prefer a deeper, richer sound with a crisp tactile bump, the Gateron Quinn is a great choice. If you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience with a soft thock, the TTC Silent Frozen is an excellent option. Ultimately, both switches offer satisfying typing experiences, and you can achieve similar results by choosing the switch that aligns with your desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique combination of crisp tactile feedback and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a clean and precise tactile bump, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound that adds character to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with an extremely quiet sound profile, smooth key travel, and a pillowy feel, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is the one for you. Its light bottom out force of 43 grams reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Silent Frozen switch also offers a buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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