HMX Hibiscus vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the switch type plays a pivotal role in shaping your typing experience. The HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light actuation force, making it a top choice for those who prioritize a seamless and swift feel in their keystrokes. This linear switch not only enhances speed but also delivers a satisfyingly clacky and crispy sound signature that adds a layer of auditory pleasure to each tap. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a different charm, featuring a light-medium amount of tactility that provides just enough feedback for typists who enjoy a bit of resistance. Its unique sound profile—a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out paired with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out—offers a rich auditory experience that can enhance the joy of typing. While the Hibiscus may appeal to those seeking smoothness and speed, the Red Panda caters to enthusiasts who appreciate tactile feedback and a distinctive sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Red Panda exhibit differing sound profiles largely due to their respective top housing materials. The Hibiscus features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, users experience a rounder, richer auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for generating a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to its clear and resonant sound, making the auditory experience sharper and livelier. Consequently, individuals who prioritize a depth of sound may prefer the Hibiscus, while those seeking clarity might gravitate toward the Red Panda.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches offer a shared characteristic, as they both employ nylon in their construction. This similarity in material results in a unified auditory experience in terms of depth and fullness when the keys bottom out. The nylon bottom housing is instrumental in producing a duller sound profile, regardless of whether it is paired with a nylon or polycarbonate top. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the feel and sound upon bottoming out, both the Hibiscus and the Red Panda will provide the same depth in auditory feedback when pressing the keys down. This compatibility ensures that users of either switch will find the experience consistent when it comes to the lower-register auditory output.
While the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Red Panda differ in their top housing materials and thus produce contrasting sound profiles during key release, their identical nylon bottom housings ensure a shared experience in terms of sound depth when the keys are pressed down. This combination of materials leads to a nuanced outcome: the Hibiscus emphasizes warmth and depth while the Red Panda leans toward clarity and brightness. Ultimately, the choice between the two may hinge on personal preference regarding sound profiles during typing, but both switches will deliver a consistent and satisfying experience at the bottom-out phase due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges in terms of weight and feel. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Red Panda has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a firmer feel that some typists or gamers may find more satisfying for its substantial resistance. This difference means that the Hibiscus is recommended for those who desire a lighter touch, while the Red Panda appeals to those who appreciate a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing experience and comfort during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, the Hibiscus measures 3.5 mm, while the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm. This indicates that the Hibiscus switch offers a more pronounced keystroke, which may appeal to users who favor a deeper feel while typing or gaming. Conversely, the Red Panda’s shorter travel distance may provide a quicker response time, which is often preferred by gamers seeking fast actions. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Red Panda would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke might opt for the Hibiscus. Thus, the Hibiscus is the longer travel option, while the Red Panda is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 HMX Hibiscus linear switch stands out with its satisfyingly clacky and poppy audio profile, creating a crisp auditory experience when typing. This sound signature offers a unique blend of liveliness that can be quite engaging. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch generates a distinct sound characterized by a lower, bassier tone upon bottom-out, coupled with a clackier, higher-pitched sound during the top-out phase. This combination leads to a thocky auditory experience reminiscent of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock," providing a rich depth to every keystroke. While both switches deliver enjoyable sounds, their tonal qualities vary significantly, offering different auditory experiences for the user.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness, providing an ultra-light actuation force that enhances the overall typing experience, making it exceptionally effortless to engage each key. This smoothness is a significant part of its appeal, delivering a premium sensation as the fingers glide over the keys without distraction. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda offers a light-medium level of tactility, which introduces a gentle feedback to the typing experience. This mild tactility provides a comfortable middle ground that is approachable for users who may be new to mechanical switches, balancing engagement with accessibility.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Outemu Red Panda switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Hibiscus linear switch offers a smooth and lightweight experience accompanied by a clacky sound, while the Red Panda tactile switch provides a gentler feedback with a more complex auditory signature. Whether you prefer a lush, engaging sound experience or a well-balanced tactile feel, both switches can deliver enjoyable outcomes based on individual preferences. Ultimately, sound and feel can vary based on personal taste, and trying both can lead to discovering which one resonates more with your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you value a smooth, light keyboard with an ultra-responsive feel, the Hibiscus is an excellent choice. Its lower actuation force and satisfying, clacky sound signature make it ideal for fast typists or gamers who prefer quick and effortless key presses. This switch shines in scenarios requiring rapid typing or game inputs, where you want feedback without being weighed down by a heavy actuation force. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile experience with a bit of resistance and a rich, thocky sound, the Red Panda may be more your style. The 60-gram actuation force provides a balanced feedback that can enhance your typing experience, particularly if you appreciate the satisfaction of a tactile bump without being overly harsh. This switch is well-suited for casual typing, where the pleasant sound and feel can make your typing sessions more enjoyable. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prefer the ultra-smooth feel of the Hibiscus or the mild tactility and richer sound of the Red Panda.
Mentioned in this article
