Gazzew LT vs. Outemu Red Panda

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew LT, a linear switch, and the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch. The Gazzew LT switches are best known for their mesmerizing lilac hue and the auditory symphony they create with every keystroke. With a deep, resonant "thockiness" that is accompanied by a seamless glide, typing on these switches is a truly enjoyable experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switches offer a different typing experience. They provide a light-medium amount of tactility, giving you a gentle feedback as you type. The bottom-out sound is described as bassier, resembling raindrops, while the top-out sound is clackier and higher-pitched. Both switches have their unique characteristics, and choosing between them depends on personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew LT Linear

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$6.50 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gazzew LT and the Outemu Red Panda differ in terms of their housing materials, leading to variations in sound profiles and typing experiences. The LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with clear housing, particularly if RGB lighting is involved.

Similarly, the housing materials used in the bottom housings of the LT and the Red Panda differ. The Gazzew LT incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, renowned for delivering a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In comparison, the Red Panda employs a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

When a switch has different housing materials for its top and bottom, their individual qualities will impact different aspects of the typing experience. Pressing down on the switch will allow the user to feel the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and overall feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key.

While the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Red Panda showcase distinct housing materials, they both aim to enhance the sound profile and typing experience in their unique ways. The LT's Gazzew blend brings richness and softness to the overall sound, whereas the Red Panda's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials contribute to sharper or deeper sound profiles, respectively. Ultimately, whether by softness or stiffness, these switches deliver satisfying sounds for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, some notable differences can be observed. The LT switch has an actuation force that is unknown, while the Red Panda requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Despite the unknown actuation force of the LT switch, it is clear that the Red Panda has a lighter actuation force.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the LT switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Red Panda requires 60 grams of force to bottom out, making it slightly lighter.

Considering the aspect of weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Red Panda switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. This lighter feel can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel may opt for the LT switch or a switch with a heavier actuation and bottom out force.

In conclusion, while the actuation force of the LT switch remains unknown, it is evident that the Red Panda switch has a lighter actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force. Both switches provide different options for individuals seeking either a lighter or heavier typing experience, catering to various preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the shorter travel distance of the LT switch may be more suitable. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial key press, the slightly longer travel distance of the Red Panda switch may provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a deep, resonant thockiness that is often described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. This creates a rich and satisfying sound when the keys are pressed and released. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch also produces a thocky sound, but it is characterized by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Both switches offer a pleasing auditory experience, but the LT switch is likely to provide a deeper and richer sound profile.

When it comes to feel, unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Gazzew LT linear switch. However, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. It stands in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Without more details about the LT switch, it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of feel.

Taking all the available information into account, it is evident that both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have their own unique qualities. The LT switch is best known for its deep, resonant thockiness and low-pitched sound, while the Red Panda switch offers a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. As for feel, the Red Panda switch is described as mild and gentle. While the specific feel of the LT switch is unknown, it is reasonable to expect a seamless glide with every keystroke. It is important to note that the sound and feel of the switches are also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with their own distinct characteristics.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness and a seamless glide with every keystroke, the Gazzew LT linear switch would be your best choice. With their enticing lilac hue, these switches offer a bassy, thocky sound profile that is characterized by a lower frequency range. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility and a clackier, higher-pitched sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be more suitable. These switches provide a raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a thocky top-out sound. Additionally, the Red Panda offers a more gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

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Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more