HMX Lucky vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Red Panda offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Lucky is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings, which provide a lightweight and neutral typing feel that many find deeply satisfying. This linear switch is ideal for users who prefer a smooth keypress without the interruption of tactile feedback—perfect for both fast-paced gaming and extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda stands out with its light-medium tactility, delivering a unique auditory experience characterized by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This makes the Red Panda a favorite among typists who appreciate tactile feedback and a pronounced auditory cue, adding an engaging layer to their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize a smooth, unyielding key feel or a more tactile and resonant feedback. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and Outemu Red Panda switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which plays a significant role in shaping the auditory experience during typing. The Lucky features a nylon top housing, revered for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder alternatives. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda employs a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's relatively stiff structure allows for a clearer resonance, providing an entirely different auditory experience. Thus, while both switches can produce satisfying sound profiles, their top housing materials contribute distinctly different acoustic characteristics, making them appealing for different preferences among typists.
When examining the bottom housings of the switches, both the HMX Lucky and Outemu Red Panda utilize nylon, resulting in a shared acoustic quality. The nylon's softer composition allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to the overall typist experience, particularly in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Since the bottom housing impacts how the switch feels when fully pressed down, both switches will maintain a consistent tactile experience with a rounded sound when bottomed out. This shared material for the bottom housing underscores the compatibility of sound quality across different intention-focused designs, as both switches will offer a similar auditory response at the moment of bottoming out.
The combination of dissimilar top housings with the same bottom housing in both switches highlights how individual materials contribute to the overall typing experience. With the nylon bottom housing providing a solid foundation for a deeper sound, the distinct acoustic profiles created by the nylon and polycarbonate top housings come into play when the key is released. The Red Panda’s crisper top end contrasts with the softer feel of the Lucky, which results in a more rounded sound when typing and releasing keys. Consequently, while both switches may induce different auditory sensations, particularly during key actuation and release, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistency in the deeper sound that characterizes their sonic performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch with the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we find distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences among users. The Lucky switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a lighter feel, especially beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Red Panda switch requires a stronger actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While the Lucky's forces are lighter overall, the Red Panda offers a firmer response, which can be more satisfying for those who enjoy tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing feel; the HMX Lucky is designed for ease and comfort, while the Outemu Red Panda caters to those who appreciate a more robust key press.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we find that the Lucky switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Red Panda switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Lucky switch the longer travel option between the two. In the context of preference, gamers may lean towards the Red Panda for its shorter distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who value a more substantial feel may prefer the Lucky switch. Ultimately, both switches will offer distinct tactile experiences based on their differing travel distances, catering to varied user preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch is known for its neutral acoustic profile, producing a smooth and quiet typing experience that is unobtrusive in most environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch boasts a more dynamic auditory character, featuring a delightful thocky sound that combines a bassy bottom-out with a higher-pitched top-out. This results in a typing experience that not only feels engaging but also attracts attention with its clackier notes. While both switches serve different auditory preferences, those seeking a quieter experience may lean towards the Lucky, whereas those who enjoy more pronounced sounds might relish the Red Panda.
In terms of feel, the Lucky linear switch provides a deeply satisfying and lightweight typing experience that’s often perceived as smooth and uncomplicated, making it approachable for beginners and those who prefer a more mellow sensation while typing. Conversely, the Red Panda tactile switch offers a light to medium tactile feedback, delivering a gentle but noticeable bump that enhances the typing experience without being overwhelming. This mild tactility helps bridge the gap between linear and more pronounced tactile switches, making it approachable to a broader range of typists. Ultimately, the Lucky suits users looking for a seamless and effortless feel, while the Red Panda caters to those who enjoy a hint of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch cater to different typing preferences with distinct sound and feel characteristics. While the Lucky provides a quiet and smooth experience, the Red Panda offers a satisfying auditory richness combined with mild tactility. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize auditory presence or a smooth typing experience. If you value a quiet and straightforward typing approach, the Lucky will satisfy your needs; if you seek a more engaging and textured experience, the Red Panda may be the perfect fit.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you weigh speed and a lightweight typing experience heavily—perhaps for gaming or rapid typing tasks—the Lucky switch, with its 43-gram bottom out force and neutral feel, could be your ideal pick. Its softer, glittery nylon housings contribute to a vibrant yet satisfying sound profile, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a smooth and seamless typing experience. Conversely, if you desire a tactile sensation that adds depth to your typing—combined with a more pronounced sound—and you appreciate a heavier actuation force, the Outemu Red Panda is likely the switch for you. The 60-gram bottom out force and the mild tactility it offers create a balanced experience that caters to both typists and gamers who enjoy feedback with every keystroke. Its thocky sound signature resonates with many users looking for a rich auditory experience, enhancing the overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, consider what feels best for you, whether it’s the lightweight and smooth ride of the Lucky or the tactile and sonorous feedback of the Red Panda.
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