Gateron Quinn vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Yellow Silver, a linear switch. The Quinn switches are well-known for their unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users are greeted with a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switches from Outemu are highly regarded for their light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making them ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. While both switches offer their own advantages, each catering to different preferences and needs, it's important to delve deeper to determine which switch would be the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Quinn and Outemu Yellow Silver switches have distinct differences in their housing materials, particularly in the top housing. The Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the Yellow Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials leads to variations in the sound produced when typing on these switches.
Another difference lies in the bottom housing material. Both the Quinn and Yellow Silver switches utilize a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material in the bottom housing is also softer and absorbs more sound, contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, the two switches share similar qualities due to their use of the same housing material.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound characteristics of a switch. The split between the top and bottom housing influences the sound when pressing a key and when letting go. While the Quinn and Yellow Silver switches have different top housing materials, their bottom housing material remains the same, resulting in a shared impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the distinct housing materials of the top portions lead to variations in the sound profiles produced by these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams, while the Yellow Silver requires only 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This indicates that the Yellow Silver switch is lighter and may be preferred by those who prefer a softer touch or need to type for extended periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Quinn has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 55 grams. This means that the Quinn provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may find more satisfying. Overall, it can be said that the Quinn is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force when compared to the Yellow Silver. However, both switches offer a medium level of force, providing a balance between comfort and the tactile feedback needed for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have different travel distances. The Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0 mm is the more traditional distance, while 3.4 mm is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Quinn a popular choice for gaming. However, some may find shorter distances too abrupt and prefer the longer distance provided by the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference - those seeking a more responsive feel may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Quinn, while those desiring a deeper key press may choose the Yellow Silver.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 best known for its deep and resonant sound profile. These switches have a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and specially designed nylon housings, which contribute to the rich and immersive sound produced with each keystroke. The sound is characterized as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you desire a similar experience to the Quinn in terms of sound, you may consider pairing the Yellow Silver switch with a board and keycaps known for delivering a deeper and richer sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a range of subjective qualities that enhance the typing experience. These qualities include being snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. The snappy nature of the switch, attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, makes each keystroke feel responsive and alive. The polished finish of the switch results in a sleek and refined typing experience characterized by reduced friction and smooth key travel. The bouncy sensation provides a spring-like or elastic feedback when typing, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound. The switch is also described as accented, meaning it offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the buttery and creamy aspects of the switch create a seamless and effortless typing sensation, as if gliding across the keys with ease and melting into each keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the specific feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of sound and feel characteristics. It offers a deep and resonant sound profile, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. The switch's subjective feel qualities, including being snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, contribute to a responsive and enjoyable typing sensation. On the other hand, information about the sound and feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is limited. Therefore, if you desire a similar immersive sound and engaging feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be the recommended choice based on the given information.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is a great option for you. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a precise and tactile bump with each keystroke. The specially designed nylon housings contribute to a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. The Quinn switches are described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant, offering a clean and sharp sound profile.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches provide a lighter typing experience favored by gamers and typists who value speediness and responsiveness. The Yellow Silver switches are described as having a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of uses.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a deep and resonant sound, the Quinn switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more responsive typing experience with a neutral sound, the Yellow Silver switch is a great option. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of tactility when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
