TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch are both popular choices for different reasons. The Gold Red Pro is lauded for its versatility, offering a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Red Panda stands out for its light-medium tactility and unique bottom-out and top-out sounds. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, whether it be for gaming, office work, or leisurely typing sessions. 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate top housings makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a consistent and pleasing sound profile for users who enjoy a more distinct typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Gold Red Pro and the Red Panda utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that adds a satisfying depth to typing experience. The use of nylon bottom housings in both switches emphasizes the importance of sound quality and tactile feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prefer a more impactful and immersive feel during use.
While both switches feature similar housing materials in terms of their top and bottom components, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings can affect the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch tends to have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the role of each housing material in a switch can help users better appreciate the unique characteristics and performance of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Red Panda, allowing them to choose the switch that best suits their typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see that the Gold Red Pro is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Red Panda is heavier at 50 grams. The bottom out force is unknown for the Gold Red Pro, while it is 60 grams for the Red Panda. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red Pro for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the Red Panda. Both switches offer different levels of actuation force and bottom out force, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Red Panda may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, particularly gamers who require quick reactions. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Gold Red Pro may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Gold Red Pro providing a slightly longer travel distance and the Red Panda offering a shorter travel distance for different user experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a neutral tone that is neither too loud nor too soft, providing a harmonious typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch delivers a thocky sound profile with a bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out sound. This makes the Red Panda switch more distinctive and potentially better suited for users who enjoy a more defined auditory feedback during typing.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is characterized as offering a mild typing experience, suitable for users who prefer a more approachable and middle-ground tactile feel with a moderate level of feedback. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with slightly different levels of tactility and resistance.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro excels in versatility and adaptability, making it suitable for a wide range of typing activities, while the Red Panda stands out for its unique sound profile and gentle tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize a neutral sound and polished feel or a thocky sound and mild tactility, you can choose between these switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, you should think about your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience and is suitable for a variety of settings, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light-medium amount of tactility and a unique sound profile, the Red Panda could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you in your everyday typing tasks. Consider trying out both switches if possible to see which one aligns best with your typing style.
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