Gateron Quinn vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Gateron Quinn and the Durock T1, both of which are tactile switches. The Quinn switch stands out for its unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With specially designed nylon housings, each keystroke produces a rich and immersive sound, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 switch offers a super comfortable typing experience, with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While both switches offer their own merits, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and the Durock T1 differ in terms of their impact on 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. This results in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the T1's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the T1's clear polycarbonate top housing is particularly useful for RGB lighting effects. Therefore, while the Quinn provides a softer and more muted sound, the T1 creates a brighter and more vibrant sound experience with the added benefit of RGB lighting capabilities.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Quinn and the T1 utilize nylon as the housing material. As nylon is a classic switch housing material, it creates a similar deep and full sound profile in both switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. Therefore, in terms of bottom-out sounds and feels, the Quinn and the T1 will provide comparable results.
It is important to note that if a switch utilizes different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Thus, the choice between the Quinn and the T1 will depend on whether you prefer a softer, deeper sound (Quinn) or a sharper, crisper sound with RGB lighting options (T1).
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Starting with the actuation force, the Gateron Quinn requires 59 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact actuation force of the Durock T1 is unknown. However, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, providing a substantial typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, both the Gateron Quinn and the Durock T1 require 67 grams of force to fully depress the switch. This similarity ensures that typing on either switch will yield similar results when it comes to the overall pressure felt when pressing down.
Weight is an important factor to consider, as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. The lighter weight of a switch allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for those who need to use their keyboards for extended periods of time, such as in a work environment or during prolonged gaming sessions. However, some individuals prefer a heavier actuation force, as it provides a more substantial push feel and a tactile typing experience. For such individuals, options with heavier forces, like the Gateron Quinn or the Durock T1, would be a suitable choice.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Gateron Quinn and the Durock T1 may differ, their bottom out forces are equal. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences of typing comfort and endurance.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have different travel distances. The Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the T1 falls closer to the average travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Quinn is slightly shorter. The Quinn's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster response times, as shorter distances can result in quicker key presses. On the other hand, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Quinn to be too abrupt, and may prefer the longer travel distance of the T1, which provides a more substantial and satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and priorities regarding responsiveness and depth.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 bassy, which means it has a deep and rich sound profile with lower frequency tones resembling bass. Additionally, it is characterized as clacky, providing a sharp and percussive sound. The Quinn switch is also low-pitched, resulting in a mellow and bass-heavy tone. The sound profile of the Quinn switch is further enhanced by its specially designed nylon housings, which create a resonant and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as low-pitched, similar to the Quinn switch. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, resembling the sound of rain falling on a window. While the T1's sound profile may not be as unique or immersive as the Quinn's, it still provides a pleasant and soothing typing experience. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers several desirable qualities. It is described as snappy, indicating a super responsive typing experience. This responsiveness can be attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, making each keystroke feel more alive. The Quinn switch is also polished, providing a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Furthermore, the Quinn switch is accented, meaning it offers a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. In addition, the Quinn switch can be described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. These qualities make the Quinn switch a joy to type on. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is stepped, which means it has a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Similar to the Quinn switch, the T1 is also accented, offering a medium level of tactility. Additionally, the T1 switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience similar to the Quinn switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Quinn switch is best known for its crisp and light switch-like tactility, deep and resonant sound profile, snappy and polished feel, as well as its buttery and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 switch is known for its comfortable typing experience, medium bump feel, and sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While they have some similarities, such as being low-pitched, accented, and polished, each switch provides a different overall subjective experience. Whether you prefer the immersive and resonant sound of the Quinn switch or the soothing sound of the T1 switch, both options offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, when deciding between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, you should consider both their sound and feel characteristics. The Quinn switches are best known for their unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound. With each keystroke, you can expect a precise and clean tactile bump accompanied by a rich and immersive sound reminiscent of bass tones. On the other hand, the T1 switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound that resembles rain falling on a window. They have a low-pitched sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Quinn switches are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. This means they offer a responsive typing experience with reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the T1 switches are described as stepped, accented, and polished. They provide a mild tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, reduced friction, and smooth key travel.
Therefore, if you prioritize a unique, crisp tactility, deep resonant sound, and a range of smooth and buttery feels, the Gateron Quinn switches would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a medium tactile bump, low-pitched sound, and a mild tactile feedback, the Durock T1 switches would be more suitable. Consider your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you desire to make an informed decision between these two switches.
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