Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Red Panda are both popular mechanical keyboard switches with unique features that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Kiki Red is a linear switch known for its finely-tuned typing experience, offering a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch that provides a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. The Kiki Red is preferred by those who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and smooth performance, while the Red Panda is favored for its unique sound profile and tactile feel. 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Red Panda differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Kiki Red uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with the top housing and a deeper, fuller sound profile with the bottom housing. This difference in materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Kiki Red and the Red Panda aim to provide a unique and pleasing typing experience. The POM housing of the Kiki Red offers a distinct sound profile that may appeal to users seeking a deeper and more muted typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate and nylon housing of the Red Panda offer a sharper and more resonant sound profile, providing a different typing sensation for users looking for a crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Red Panda can impact the overall typing experience for users. The POM housing of the Kiki Red may appeal to those looking for a more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate and nylon housing of the Red Panda offer a crisper and fuller sound. Depending on whether users prioritize the bottom-out sound and feel or the sound when releasing a key, the difference in housing materials can provide a unique typing experience with each switch. However, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, despite the variation in materials used for their housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, the Kiki Red is lighter in both aspects with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Red Panda is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Kiki Red would be the better choice. On the other hand, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Red Panda would be more suitable. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of different individuals.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Kiki Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda, making it more suitable for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular today, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a longer or shorter travel distance in your typing preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a sharply clacky nuance, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch gives a deeper, thocky sound that is rich and satisfying to the ears. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Kiki Red leaning towards a higher-pitched clack and the Red Panda showcasing a bassier bottom-out sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile you prefer in a mechanical keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, with minimal resistance or friction during key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. The Red Panda may not have the same level of smoothness as the Kiki Red, but it still provides a comfortable and gentle typing feel that is suitable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch each have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Kiki Red excels in providing a clacky and smooth typing experience with its high-pitched sound and creamy feel, while the Red Panda offers a thocky sound and a mild tactile feel that is approachable to a wide range of users. Both switches have their strengths, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing performance. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that is tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and subtle auditory feedback along with medium-light weighting, the Kiki Red could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound, the Red Panda might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value finesse in performance and creamy, frictionless feel of the Kiki Red, or if you prefer a mild typing experience with a thocky sound of the Red Panda. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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