Gateron Quinn vs. KTT Strawberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the KTT Strawberry, a linear switch. The Quinn switches offer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. 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 Strawberry switches are loved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With attractive pink and clear housings, these delectable Strawberries provide a low-pitched, frictionless typing experience that feels silky and buttery. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that make them appealing choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Quinn Tactile

KTT Strawberry Linear

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

$4.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and the KTT Strawberry, namely nylon for the Quinn and polycarbonate for the Strawberry, offer distinct differences in sound profile and aesthetics. The Quinn's nylon top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer polycarbonate plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial if you plan to use RGB lighting.

However, despite the contrasting sound profiles, both the Quinn and the Strawberry provide similar results in terms of sound quality. They both offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials. The Quinn's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for those who prefer a more mellow typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, appealing to those looking for a more vibrant and defined typing experience. While the materials differ, both switches are designed to evoke a pleasant sound profile, catering to different preferences and typing styles.

Another important point of contrast between the Quinn and Strawberry lies in their visual appeal. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, which does not offer any transparency, resulting in a more solid and opaque appearance. Conversely, the Strawberry's polycarbonate top housing is clear, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an extra visual element to the typing experience. This makes the Strawberry a more suitable choice for those seeking a visually striking keyboard setup. However, the bottom housings of both switches are not transparent, maintaining a consistent look in both cases.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Quinn and the KTT Strawberry is based on personal preferences and desired sound profiles. While the Quinn's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing lends itself to a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Strawberry offers the added benefit of showcasing RGB lighting. However, regardless of the chosen switch, both options still provide a satisfying typing experience and a high-quality switch design.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Quinn has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Strawberry's actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Quinn requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Quinn is also heavier with a force of 67 grams, whereas the Strawberry has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Therefore, the Quinn provides a more substantial typing experience in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Strawberry offers a lighter typing feel. If one prefers a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Strawberry would be the suitable choice. On the other hand, if a user prefers a stronger push for a more impactful typing experience, the Quinn would be the better option. In terms of weight, the Quinn is slightly heavier than the Strawberry, making it more suitable for those seeking a heavier switch. Overall, both switches provide distinct levels of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can see that the Quinn has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Strawberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience.

For those who prefer a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the Quinn may be more appealing. Gamers, in particular, often opt for shorter travel distances as it allows for quicker reactions and keystrokes. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, lacking a sense of depth. In such cases, the longer travel distance of the Strawberry switch might be more suitable, providing a more substantial and satisfying key press.

It is important to note that both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being on the shallower end. Therefore, regardless of the choice, both switches will offer a similar experience compared to the more traditional options. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch will come down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deep, resonant, and bassy sound profile. The specially designed nylon housings contribute to the rich and immersive sound experience. Each keystroke produces a crisp and bright sound that adds character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. While the specific sound characteristics of the Strawberry switch are not fully detailed, it can be expected to have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It's important to note that the sound of both switches is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

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 refined. The typing experience with the Quinn switch feels alive and provides a spring-like feedback. The keys have a lively feel and offer rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These descriptors highlight a switch that offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. The Strawberry switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and provides a sleek and refined experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Quinn switch produces a deep, resonant, and bassy sound, while the Strawberry switch has a low-pitched sound. When it comes to feel, the Quinn switch is snappy, polished, and provides a bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch offers a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two switches. However, if you prefer a smoother and effortless typing experience, both switches can provide similar results with their buttery and polished characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be your best choice. These switches offer a precise and clean tactile bump, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound that adds character to your typing experience. They have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying level of resistance.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be a great option. These switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, making them medium in terms of actuation force. The Strawberries are known for their smooth actuation and reliable performance, with a focus on delivering a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel.

In terms of sound, the Quinn switches offer a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile, while the Strawberries have a low-pitched sound. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with crisp and bright tones, the Quinn switches would suit your preferences. Alternatively, if you enjoy a more mellow and bass-heavy sound, the Strawberries can provide that experience.

When it comes to feel, the Quinn switches are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These descriptors highlight the responsiveness, smoothness, liveliness, and overall seamless typing sensation of the Quinn switches. On the other hand, the Strawberries are known for their frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience.

Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider factors such as the level of tactility, bottom out force, sound profile, and overall typing feel when making your decision. Whether you prioritize a unique and immersive sound or a smooth and comfortable typing experience, both switches offer their own set of advantages.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

KTT Strawberry Linear

$4.91 per 10

Learn more