Gateron Quinn vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for consideration are the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type S. The Quinn switch is a tactile switch that is best known for its unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile. Offering a precise and clean tactile bump with each keystroke, the Quinn switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Bassy', 'Polished', and more, providing a rich and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Type S switch is a linear switch that is part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash." With a 65g bottom-out, this switch caters to those who prefer a weightier keystroke while offering a pleasing balance of neutral yet deeper acoustics. Categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued', the Type S switch is known for its contemporary factory lubing techniques. Each switch has its own unique features and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type S are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This makes typing on switches that use nylon a more satisfying experience for those looking for a quieter and more tactile feel.
While both the Quinn and Type S switches share the same nylon housing material, they may offer slightly different sound profiles due to variations in the design and construction of the switches. The bottom housing of the switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. These subtle differences in housing design may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, even though they are made of the same material.
Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Quinn or the Gateron Type S, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel due to their shared nylon housing materials. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. The tactile experience of typing on these switches is enhanced by the relatively softer plastic of the nylon housing, providing a more comfortable and satisfying typing experience for users. Ultimately, the differences between the two switches may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we can see that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. The Quinn has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams, while their bottom out forces are also slightly different with 67 grams for the Quinn and 65 grams for the Type S. Both switches offer a substantial typing experience with a satisfying amount of force required for key presses. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Type S may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Quinn provides a bit more resistance, catering to those who prefer a heavier push feel for more precision in typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type S has a longer travel distance compared to the Quinn. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Quinn may be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a switch with a bit more depth and a longer travel distance, the Type S could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing or gaming style and which travel distance you find more comfortable and efficient.
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 S 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for its bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile with a sharp and snappy experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, catering to those who prefer a moderate sound profile with a dampened and subtle signature. The choice between the two switches will heavily depend on personal preference and the overall sound experience desired, with the Quinn providing a more immersive and character-filled sound, while the Type S offering a more balanced and neutral sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, offering a tactile and smooth typing experience with a spring-like feedback and refined finish. Meanwhile, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is not provided, making it challenging to directly compare the two in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience. However, based on the characteristics of the Quinn switch, it can be assumed that the Type S linear switch may offer a more straightforward and linear typing experience without the additional tactility and smoothness of the Quinn.
Overall, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Quinn switch excels in providing a deep and resonant sound profile with a crisp and tactile typing experience, while the Type S switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound with a potentially straightforward and linear typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a deep, resonant sound profile and a crisp tactile bump, the Gateron Quinn switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Quinn switch is best suited for those who enjoy a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, or resonant sound profile and prefer a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, or creamy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet subdued sound signature, the Gateron Type S switch would be more suitable for you. The Type S switch is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience and do not mind a more moderate sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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