Gateron Quinn vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type L, a linear switch. The Quinn switch is well-known for its crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, making each keystroke a rich and immersive experience. On the other hand, the Type L switch is part of a project focused on revitalizing classic travel distances with modern lubing practices, offering a lighter touch and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum. The Quinn switch is categorized as snappy, bassy, polished, bouncy, clacky, accented, buttery, creamy, low-pitched, and resonant, while the Type L is categorized as neutral, subdued, feathery, and easy-to-press. If you're looking for a switch with a unique tactile experience and rich sound, the Gateron Quinn may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter touch and a deeper sound signature, the Gateron Type L could be the better choice. 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
38g
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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing material of both the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type L switches is made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality due to their shared nylon housing material. However, the specific design and construction of each switch may still result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
Despite their shared nylon housing material, the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type L switches may have differences in the design and construction of their top and bottom housings. The qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing design may result in variations in the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type L switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon housing material. Both switches provide a deep and full sound profile, thanks to the sound absorption properties of nylon. The differences in the design and construction of the top and bottom housings may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel, although the overall typing experience is likely to be consistent between the two switches. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron Quinn and the Gateron Type L may come down to personal preference and specific preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch differ significantly. The Quinn has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Type L has a lower actuation force of 38 grams and a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. The Quinn provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Type L offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Quinn offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster input feedback. On the other hand, the Type L linear switch provides a more substantial key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key press feedback.
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 L 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 characterized by a bassy and resonant profile, providing a deep and immersive typing experience with each key press. The sound is described as clacky, with a sharp and percussive tone that adds character to the typing process. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, creating a dampened and subtle typing experience. The Type L switch is not completely silent but offers a more moderate and gentle sound compared to the Quinn. Ultimately, the sound of either switch is also influenced by factors such as keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for its snappy, polished, and buttery typing experience. The switches are described as bouncy and accented, offering a lively and smooth keystroke sensation. The typing experience on Quinn switches is seamless, effortless, and uniform, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch is labeled as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal effort to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. These switches offer a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, making them suitable for various typing needs.
Overall, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Quinn switch provides a rich and deep sound profile with a crisp tactile bump, accompanied by a snappy and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L switch delivers a more neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, ideal for reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Whether you choose the Quinn or the Type L, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you value a tactile typing experience with a crisp, light tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, then the Quinn switch may be the right choice for you. The Quinn switch offers a unique combination of tactile feedback and sound, creating an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keystroke with a neutral sound profile, the Type L linear switch may be more suitable for your typing style. The Type L switch provides a light and easy-to-press feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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