Outemu Purple vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple and Gateron Quinn both offer a tactile typing experience. The Outemu Purple switch is known for its tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch stands out with its unique combination of tactile bump and deep sound profile, resulting in a crisp and immersive typing experience. While the Purple switch is best for those who prefer a straightforward tactile response, the Quinn switch is ideal for users looking for a switch that offers both tactility and a distinctive sound profile. 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
50g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Purple and Gateron Quinn switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound and feel of typing. The Purple's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Quinn's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer material. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent polycarbonate of the Purple allows for RGB lighting effects, while the classic nylon of the Quinn offers a more traditional look.
On the bottom housing side, both the Purple and Quinn switches feature nylon material, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite the different top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes significantly to the overall typing experience, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Purple and Gateron Quinn switches have different top housing materials with unique sound profiles, their shared nylon bottom housing brings a similar deep and full sound profile to the typing experience. The top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in the overall sound and feel, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer different options for users seeking varied sound profiles and aesthetics in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces vary between the two. The Purple has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams, making the Purple easier to trigger. However, the bottom out force for the Purple is unknown, while the Quinn has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that typing on the Quinn switch will require more force for each keypress compared to the Purple switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Outemu Purple may be the better choice. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel is desired, the Gateron Quinn would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, we can see that the Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Purple being on the longer side and the Quinn on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Quinn for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while others may find the Purple more satisfying due to its deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Purple comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a specific sound profile attributed to it, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch. However, based on the description provided for the Quinn switch, it offers a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile that adds depth and character to the typing experience. The Quinn switch is known for producing a rich and immersive sound with each keystroke, creating a unique auditory experience for users.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch also lacks a specific description, making it challenging to offer a direct comparison with the Gateron Quinn tactile switch. The Quinn switch, on the other hand, is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, providing users with a smooth and responsive typing experience. The Quinn switch is designed to offer a satisfying tactile bump with each key press, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel for users.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Purple tactile switch in terms of sound and feel are not explicitly described, users can expect a unique and immersive sound profile and a smooth and responsive typing experience from the Gateron Quinn tactile switch. Both switches offer different characteristics that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your preference for a bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch with no bottom out force, the Purple might be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force coupled with a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, then the Quinn switches would be more suitable. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to see which aligns better with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most.
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