Gateron Quinn vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, there are often two main categories to consider: tactile switches and linear switches. On one hand, the Gateron Quinn stands out for its crisp, light tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, providing users with a unique typing experience that is both satisfying and immersive. The Quinn switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Accented', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', and 'Resonant'. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai offers a different experience with its softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. The Xinhai switch falls under the categories of 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Each switch has its own standout features and characteristics, making them appealing options for 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
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and the HMX Xinhai present noticeable differences in terms of sound profiles and aesthetics. The Quinn's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer material that creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the overall design.
On the other hand, both the Quinn and the Xinhai feature nylon bottom housings, resulting in similar sound profiles characterized by a deeper and fuller tone. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound when typing on either switch. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, regardless of the differences in their respective top housing materials. Overall, the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each material are distinctly felt during typing. The bottom housing's impact is noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This configuration allows for a nuanced typing experience, where the characteristics of both housing materials come into play during various stages of key presses. Whether it be the softer, sound-absorbing properties of nylon or the sharp, resonant qualities of polycarbonate, the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch.
Weight
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch. The Quinn requires 59 grams of force to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, which provides a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai only needs 37 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, resulting in a lighter typing feel. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Quinn, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may opt for the Xinhai. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they offer the same tactile feedback and keypress experience to the user. Both switches provide a consistent travel distance of 3.4 mm, ensuring a uniform typing experience regardless of the switch type. As a result, whether you choose the Quinn or the Xinhai switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and keypress 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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 deep and resonant bassy sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience with a clean and crisp tactile bump. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky sound, characterized by sharp and snappy key presses. The Quinn provides a richer and lower frequency sound, while the Xinhai delivers a bright and percussive tone. Both switches offer unique acoustic profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Quinn leaning towards a bass-heavy resonance and the Xinhai featuring a higher-pitched and sharp sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether you prefer a deeper and richer sound (Quinn) or a sharp and snappy tone (Xinhai) in your typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These qualities imply a responsive, smooth, spring-like sensation with a refined finish and prominent tactility without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a lively feel with a smooth and buttery keystroke sensation. Both switches offer a combination of responsiveness, smoothness, and tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable interaction with the keyboard.
In conclusion, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Quinn provides a deep and resonant bassy sound profile with a crisp tactile bump, complemented by a snappy, polished, and buttery typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai delivers a sharp and snappy clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel for a smooth and lively keystroke sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound richness and tactile feedback, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a unique and immersive sound profile with a crisp tactile bump, the Quinn may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a softer acoustics profile paired with a high-pitched resonance and a lighter typing force, the Xinhai could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a deep sound profile (Quinn) or a light linear switch with a softer acoustics profile and higher-pitched sound (Xinhai). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
