KTT Ash Gray vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Red Panda both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that strikes the perfect balance between being substantial yet unobtrusive. With its light touch and crisp actuation, this switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor lacking in sensation. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. These switches are categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral' for the Ash Gray and 'Thocky', 'Mild' for the Red Panda. Both switches have their unique advantages, 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Red Panda, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, their translucency allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and visual experiences when using either switch.
However, the switches differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Ash Gray incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Red Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, leading to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a more satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, while the polycarbonate top housing in both the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Red Panda creates a similar sound and visual experience, the nylon bottom housing sets them apart. While the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing results in a duller and rounder sound, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing also achieves a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the difference in bottom housing material influences the sound when pressing down on the switch and contributes to the overall typing experience for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the Red Panda requires 50 grams to register a keystroke. This means that the Ash Gray switch is more sensitive and requires less pressure to initiate a key press.
In terms of bottom out force, the Ash Gray switch has a measurement of 53 grams, whereas the Red Panda switch requires 60 grams. This indicates that the Red Panda switch has a slightly more robust and solid feel when typing compared to the Ash Gray switch.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ash Gray switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for comfortable and effortless typing, making it ideal for extended periods of use, such as in a work or gaming setting. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial and forceful typing feel, the Red Panda switch would be preferable. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a more satisfying tactile feedback.
Overall, the Ash Gray switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Red Panda switch. However, if a user desires a heavier and more substantial typing experience, either switch can be utilized effectively to achieve similar results.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it's clear that the Ash Gray has a slightly longer travel distance with 3.5 mm compared to the Red Panda's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which have become more prevalent in recent times. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Red Panda would be the preferable choice. However, for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Ash Gray with its slightly longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 KTT Ash Gray switch is known for its neutral profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound when pressed and released, making it suitable for various purposes. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using the switches at home or work, the Ash Gray switch offers a sound that is not overly loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch is described as thocky. This means that it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. The Red Panda switch offers a more pronounced sound compared to the Ash Gray switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the Ash Gray and Red Panda switches are described as mild. This means that they offer a gentle typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Ash Gray switch is also known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable. Overall, the Ash Gray provides a low-impact and responsive typing feel. The Red Panda switch, being mild as well, offers a similar typing experience to most users. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable and approachable feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray and Outemu Red Panda switches have different sound profiles. The Ash Gray switch offers a neutral sound, suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch produces a thocky sound, which is deeper and more pronounced. However, both switches share similar qualities in terms of feel. They both offer a mild and gentle typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch with a similar feel, you can expect to achieve similar results with either the Ash Gray or Red Panda switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a light touch with a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light actuation force that is ideal for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. The Ash Gray switch delivers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is substantial yet unobtrusive, resulting in a low-impact typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher actuation force, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch with its bottom out force of 60 grams is worth considering. These switches provide a light-medium amount of tactility, resulting in a satisfying typing experience with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda switch falls under the category of a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, both the Ash Gray and Red Panda switches have their unique characteristics and advantages. The Ash Gray provides an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, while the Red Panda offers a thocky sound profile and a similar mild typing feel. Therefore, the decision between these two switches would depend on your personal preferences regarding actuation force and sound profile. Overall, both switches are excellent choices and will enhance your typing experience.
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