Gateron Quinn vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can greatly impact your typing experience. Take, for example, the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch known for its crisp tactility and resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users are treated to a unique blend of light tactility and deep sound, adding a touch of character to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A, a linear switch from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offers a different appeal. This switch showcases a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum, making it an ideal compromise for those seeking a medium-weight switch. While the Quinn is described as snappy, bassy, polished, bouncy, clacky, accented, buttery, creamy, low-pitched, resonant, the Type A is categorized as neutral, subdued. Each switch has its unique characteristics and appeal, and choosing between them depends on your personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type A feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to the relatively softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made from harder plastics. The use of nylon in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, offering a tactile and satisfying typing experience for users.
While the housing materials are the same for both the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type A, the difference lies in the overall design and functionality of the switches. The Quinn switch may have a different spring weight or actuation force compared to the Type A, impacting the overall typing experience. However, the nylon housing in both switches contributes to a similar sound profile, ensuring a level of consistency in the sound produced when typing on either switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type A share similar housing materials in their nylon top and bottom housings, resulting in a comparable sound profile when typing. The use of nylon in both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound with a tactile feedback that users appreciate. While other factors such as spring weight and actuation force may vary between the two switches, the consistent housing materials ensure that users will experience a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch. The Quinn requires 59 grams of force to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Type A only needs 50 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Type A, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, perfect for office work or extended gaming. On the other hand, the Quinn provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, appealing to those who prefer a heavier switch for added feedback while typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Type A linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Quinn tactile switch. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches still fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its deep and resonant profile, offering a bassy and clacky typing experience that adds character to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound, making it a suitable choice for various purposes without being too loud or distracting. While the Quinn offers a rich and immersive auditory experience with its resonant sound, the Type A provides a more moderate and dampened sound signature. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is praised for its snappy and polished typing experience, offering a bouncy and accented tactile feedback that is smooth and refined. The keys feel buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation that is both tactile and comfortable. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is currently unknown. However, based on the characteristics of the Quinn switch, it can be assumed that the Type A linear switch might offer a similar level of smoothness and responsiveness in its key presses.
In conclusion, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, providing users with a rich and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, making it a versatile choice for a variety of typing needs. While the feel of the Quinn switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, information on the feel of the Type A switch is currently unavailable. Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a unique blend of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn switches may be the ideal choice for you. The Quinn switches provide a rich and immersive typing experience with each keystroke, delivering a precise and clean tactile bump. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Gateron Type A switches might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the Quinn tactile switch and the Type A linear switch will depend on your preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
