Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, there are several key differences to consider. The Aliaz switch is ideal for those who value a quiet environment, such as in an office setting, thanks to its silent design. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, the Aliaz switch provides a pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a light-medium amount of tactility and produces a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, making it a unique option for those who enjoy a different typing experience. While these general pointers can help you decide which switch might be best suited for your needs, diving deeper into the specifics of each switch will help you make the most informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing experience. On the other hand, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the clear and resonant sound profile, while the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
In terms of sound profiles, the Aliaz and Outemu Red Panda switches both offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials. While the polycarbonate top housing in both switches creates a sharp and clear sound profile, the Aliaz's overall sound may be crisper due to the presence of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing. On the other hand, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a distinct typing experience compared to the Aliaz.
When it comes to the physical feel of typing on switches with different housing materials, the Aliaz's combination of polycarbonate top and bottom housing may result in a more uniform and consistent typing experience. In contrast, the Red Panda's mix of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing may offer a unique tactile sensation, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches provide a range of sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences and needs.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, the Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Red Panda's lighter 50 grams. The Aliaz also has a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams, whereas the Red Panda has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Red Panda offers a lighter touch for longer periods of typing or gaming. Both switches have similar functions in terms of actuation and bottom out, but the Aliaz is on the heavier side, catering to those who prefer a more robust typing experience, while the Red Panda is a medium-weight option suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional depth. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Gamers may prefer the Red Panda for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Aliaz with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Outemu Red Panda 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments like an office setting. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch provides a thocky sound, characterized by deep, rich tones with each keystroke. While the Aliaz switch aims for a softer and quieter sound, the Red Panda switch offers a more satisfying and bassier auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience, ensuring a more gentle and approachable feel for most users. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Aliaz focusing on smoothness and reduced resistance, while the Red Panda strikes a balance in its qualities for a more universally appealing feel.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and pronounced feedback, the Gateron Aliaz switch is the way to go. If you enjoy a more satisfying and bassier sound alongside a light-medium amount of tactility, the Outemu Red Panda switch could be the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a heavier bottom out force and a more pronounced typing feedback in a quiet setting, the Aliaz switches would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a mix of tactility and unique sound profile, the Red Panda switches may be more appealing. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so make sure to consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Whether you prioritize a silky and polished typing feel or a mild and thocky sound profile, there is a switch out there that will suit your typing style perfectly.
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