KTT Kang White vs. Outemu Red Panda

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the KTT Kang White and the Outemu Red Panda. The Kang White is a linear switch, while the Red Panda is a tactile switch. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Kang White is renowned for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. The Kang White falls under the categories of 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', while the Red Panda is categorized as 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. These general descriptions should help guide your decision, but let's delve a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine which switch would be the best fit for you.

By the numbers

KTT Kang White Linear

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$1.99 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Outemu Red Panda switches share many similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.

However, one notable difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Kang White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Red Panda also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced by the Kang White may be slightly duller and rounder compared to the Red Panda.

It's important to note that the qualities brought forth by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the impact is influenced more by the bottom housing, thus affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the top and bottom housing materials may differ, the overall typing experience and sound may still be comparable due to the shared characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are a few similarities and differences to note. Both switches have a medium actuation force, meaning that they require a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly lighter than the Red Panda's 50 grams. This means that the Kang White may feel slightly easier to activate.

In terms of bottom out force, both switches also have a medium force, with the Kang White requiring 58 grams and the Red Panda requiring 60 grams. While the difference is minimal, the Red Panda has a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.

When considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing sessions, such as when using a keyboard at work or during extended gaming sessions. In this case, the Kang White would be a suitable choice due to its slightly lighter actuation force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer a switch with a heavier force. In this scenario, the Red Panda's slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces would be a better option.

Overall, both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. They both fall into the medium force category, providing a balanced typing experience. The decision between the two would depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Kang White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Kang White's travel distance falls into the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Red Panda's travel distance of 3.3 mm is on the shallower side, which may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. While both switches offer their own advantages, it ultimately depends on personal preference and whether one desires a deeper or shallower key press experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Kang White linear switch is best known for its dazzling typing sound. It produces a low-pitched sound, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This switch also offers an unparalleled smoothness when typing due to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is known for its unique sound profile. It produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This is often described as a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying when pressed.

In terms of feel, there is no specific information provided about the feel of the Kang White switch. However, the Red Panda tactile switch is described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that it offers a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users. The qualities of this switch stand in a safe mid-ground zone, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by a wide range of individuals.

Considering the available information, the Kang White and Red Panda switches offer different subjective qualities. The Kang White excels in its dazzling and low-pitched sound, combined with a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a unique thocky sound and a mild feel that is accessible to most users. It's important to note that the sound and feel of a switch are also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. If you are looking for a low-pitched and smooth typing experience, the Kang White switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a thocky sound and a mild feel, the Red Panda switch would be a suitable option. Overall, both switches offer their own distinct qualities, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the KTT Kang White linear switch is a great option for you. Its self-lubricating material ensures a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, the Kang White has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes and environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light-medium amount of tactility and a bassier bottom-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is a solid choice. It offers a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable for most users. Ultimately, the sound and feel of the Red Panda add a satisfying and thocky element to your typing. Consider your preferences for sound and feel when selecting between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Kang White Linear

$1.99 per 10

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Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more