Gateron Quinn vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch, offer distinct advantages for different typing preferences. The Quinn switches are known for their crisp tactility and rich sound profile, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. Each keystroke on the Quinn provides a precise, clean, and satisfying tactile bump, accompanied by a deep and resonant sound that adds character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches excel in offering an incredibly smooth typing feel. Their UHWMPE housings contribute to a frictionless and buttery typing experience, making each keystroke a pleasure. Although there is a fairly high-pitched clack when typing on the Tangerine switches, it adds a unique flair to the overall typing sensation. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Quinn Tactile

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

$6.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Quinn and the TKC Tangerine have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Quinn features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) top and bottom housing, a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature. Typing on switches with UHWMPE housings offers resonant clacks, providing a distinct sound experience.

While the Quinn and Tangerine have different housing materials, both switches offer unique qualities. The nylon housing of the Quinn ensures a more tactile and soft typing experience. Due to its softer nature, the nylon housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a muffled and rounded sound profile. In contrast, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing creates a bright and resonant clack sound when typing. This material is known for its durability and rigidness, offering a firmer and more responsive typing feel compared to nylon.

When it comes to the impact on sound, the top and bottom housing materials play different roles for both switches. With the Quinn, pressing down on the switch emphasizes the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nature of the nylon contributes to a more cushioned and subdued sound when bottoming out. Alternatively, the top housing of the Quinn has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing affects both the bottom-out and release sound. Its bright sound signature is noticeable during both keypresses and key releases, creating a distinct and resonant sound experience overall.

In summary, the Gateron Quinn and the TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The nylon housing of the Quinn provides a deeper and more rounded sound, while the UHWMPE housing of the Tangerine delivers a brighter and more resonant clack sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique typing experiences, showcasing the impact of their respective housing materials on the overall sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Quinn is known to be on the heavier side, with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. On the other hand, information regarding the Tangerine's actuation force is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls in the medium range.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Tangerine may be more suitable, as the lighter actuation force allows for prolonged typing sessions without excessive strain. This makes it ideal for individuals using their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. However, the Quinn offers a more substantial typing experience, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel. This can be preferred by individuals seeking a more tactile and pronounced keystroke.

While the actuation force cannot be compared directly due to the lack of information for the Tangerine, it can be inferred that the Quinn requires a slightly lighter force to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Tangerine measuring at 62 grams and the Quinn at 67 grams. Therefore, if one desires a similar bottoming out experience, either switch would yield comparable results.

Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If a lighter typing experience is desired, the Tangerine would be a suitable option, while those seeking a more robust and tactile typing experience may opt for the Quinn.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. In comparing the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there is a notable difference in their travel distances. The Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Tangerine offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm.

4.0 mm is considered a more traditional travel distance, offering a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Quinn's 3.4 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, such as gamers who require faster response times. The shorter travel distance can provide quicker actuation and a snappier feel.

However, it is important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing a switch. While some may find the shorter travel distance of the Quinn to be ideal, others may feel that it lacks the depth and satisfaction of a longer travel distance.

Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Quinn and the TKC Tangerine depends on individual preferences and typing style. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which travel distance suits you best.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is well-regarded for its deep and resonant sound profile. The specially designed nylon housings contribute to a rich and immersive typing experience, with each keystroke producing a crisp and percussive clack. The sound is described as bassy, low-pitched, clacky, and resonant, providing a unique and characterful auditory experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a higher-pitched clack when typing. While not as bassy or resonant as the Quinn, the Tangerine's sound is sharp and crisp. It is described as high-pitched, offering a different tonal quality compared to the Quinn. It is important to note that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a snappy and polished typing experience. The switch's longer or dual-staged springs contribute to its snappiness, making each keystroke feel more alive and responsive. The switch is also described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and allows for a sleek key travel. Additionally, the Quinn is accented, meaning it offers a medium amount of tactility without being too overwhelming or subtle. This provides a prominent tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch emphasizes a frictionless and buttery feel. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The polished finish of the Tangerine switch further enhances its smoothness and allows for fluid key travel.

In conclusion, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Quinn provides a deep and resonant sound profile with a crisp and tactile clack, while the Tangerine offers a higher-pitched clack. In terms of feel, the Quinn is snappy, polished, and accented, providing a lively and refined typing experience. The Tangerine, on the other hand, is frictionless, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless key press. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, then the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be the best choice for you. With its specially designed nylon housings, the Quinn switches offer a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound that adds character to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you value an incredibly smooth feel and a high-pitched clack, then the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. The Tangerines provide a pleasurable typing experience, thanks to their UHWMPE housings, which are quite rare in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize a tactile switch with a deep, resonant sound (Quinn) or a linear switch with a smooth feel and a high-pitched clack (Tangerine). Consider what aspect is more important to you and make your decision accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more