KTT Laurel vs. Outemu Red Panda

Overview

Introducing the KTT Laurel, a linear switch, and the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch. Both switches offer unique features and characteristics that may appeal to different types of users. The Laurel, known for its medium-light linear properties, strikes the perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort with its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design. It also provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a different typing experience with its light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. It falls under the categories of 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. Both switches have their own strengths, and choosing the best one for you will require diving deeper into their individual characteristics. So, let's explore further beyond generalities to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Laurel Linear

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Red Panda differ in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Laurel's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the Laurel providing a more mellow and subdued tone, and the Red Panda offering a crisper and more vibrant sound.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Laurel and Red Panda also contribute to their respective sound profiles. The POM bottom housing of the Laurel contributes to its deep and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda elicits a fuller and deeper tone. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM housing. Therefore, the typing experience on the Red Panda may feel more vibrant and impactful, while the Laurel offers a smoother and quieter experience.

Although the top and bottom housings of the Laurel and Red Panda differ, they both serve important roles in determining the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing the key. In this sense, both switches will provide a tactile and audible experience, but with distinct characteristics based on the materials used in their housings.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Red Panda requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Laurel has a weightier feel with a force of 50 grams, whereas the Red Panda has a medium level of resistance with a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Laurel provides a satisfying typing experience with a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a slightly lighter bottom out force, providing a balance between responsiveness and comfort.

Ultimately, those seeking a lightweight switch for extended use may lean towards the Laurel, while individuals desiring a stronger push feel may opt for the Red Panda. However, it's important to note that both switches offer relatively similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference. The Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent times, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feeling when pressing down on the keys, the Red Panda's slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Laurel's slightly longer travel distance could provide the desired level of depth. Regardless of the difference in travel distance between these two switches, both options offer a similar experience within the realm of shorter travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Laurel linear switch is best known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches like the Laurel typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual results may vary. Overall, both switches offer unique sound characteristics, with the Laurel leaning towards a low-pitched profile and the Red Panda offering a thocky experience.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy. This means that these switches are super responsive, often due to longer or dual-staged springs, providing a more lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild. A mild mechanical keyboard switch offers a more gentle typing experience, with qualities that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. This makes the Red Panda approachable to most users in terms of both sound and feel. Both switches offer distinct feels, with the Laurel providing a snappy feel and the Red Panda offering a mild and gentle experience.

Taking into account the available information, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, while the Red Panda produces a thocky sound. In terms of feel, the Laurel is described as snappy, offering a highly responsive typing experience, whereas the Red Panda provides a mild and gentle feel. Based on these descriptions, users can have different experiences depending on their preferences and the setup of their keyboard. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, which can also affect the overall sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you choose the Laurel or the Red Panda, you can expect unique and enjoyable experiences with each switch.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prioritize a light and responsive typing experience with a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be a great choice for you. It strikes the perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort with its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light-medium amount of tactility, a bassier bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be more suitable. It offers a more gentle typing experience with its mild characteristics, making it approachable to most users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for feel and sound. Consider your typing style and preferences to choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience the most.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more