KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Red Panda. The KTT Lightning switches are linear switches, best known for their "speed" characteristics that make them ideal for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. Typing on the Lightning switches provides a slick type feel accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switches are tactile switches, offering a light to medium amount of tactility while creating a bassier, raindrop-like sound on bottom-out and a clackier, higher-pitched sound on top-out. While these general descriptions can give you an initial idea of what to expect, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning and the Outemu Red Panda both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice creates a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, the top housing of both switches will feature this material, providing a visually appealing and consistent look.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Lightning features nylon while the Red Panda utilizes the same polycarbonate as its top housing. This variation in materials leads to a difference in the sound profile when typing on the switches. The Lightning, with its nylon bottom housing, produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a sound that is closer to the sharper and crisper profile associated with the material.
In terms of the typing experience, the difference in bottom housing materials becomes apparent. When pressing down on the Lightning switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing come into play, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing of both switches, being polycarbonate, will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, while the top housing materials may provide similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, the variation in bottom housing materials can lead to slight differences in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Red Panda switch requires a slightly stronger push with its 50 grams actuation force. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Lightning switch measuring at 50 grams and the Red Panda switch at 60 grams. Therefore, if the user prefers a lighter typing experience, the Lightning switch would be an ideal choice, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, if someone seeks a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Red Panda switch may be preferable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see that the Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Red Panda has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Lightning can be considered the shorter option. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Lightning a popular choice among gaming enthusiasts. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel and a deeper press may lean towards the Red Panda, with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer their own advantages and can provide satisfactory typing experiences, but the difference in travel distance allows users to select the option that best suits their personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Lightning switch is described as having a clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. It also has a higher-pitched top-out sound and a chirpy acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is known for its thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed and released. It has a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Lightning switch being crisper and brighter, while the Red Panda switch has a deeper and richer sound. 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.
In terms of feel, the Lightning switch provides a subtle typing experience. It offers a gentle resistance that is not overly feather-light but still maintains a light feel while typing. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The switch's qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities. The Lightning switch has a clacky sound with a higher-pitched and chirpy acoustic signature, providing a slick type feel. It also offers a subtle and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch has a thocky sound with a bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out sound, offering a light-medium amount of tactility. The switch provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preferences for sound and feel, but both can deliver satisfying results in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be an excellent choice. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches are perfect for situations where split-second decisions can make a difference. The slick type feel and clacky sound profile add to the overall satisfaction when using these switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile experience with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Outemu Red Panda switch would be a great fit. These switches offer a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda switch provides a mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users. Ultimately, the choice between the Lightning and the Red Panda would depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming tasks.
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