KTT Matcha vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Red Panda. The Matcha is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable and snappy typing experience. Its long pole stem ensures a clean bottom-out sound, making it a popular choice for users who prefer a subtle and clacky feel. On the other hand, the Red Panda is also a tactile switch but provides a different experience. Typing on these switches offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Categorized as "Thocky" and "Mild," the Red Panda delivers a unique feel and sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision based on your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Red Panda differ in terms of their bottom housings. The Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Red Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the top housings, both the Matcha and the Red Panda employ polycarbonate, which brings similar qualities to both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch, particularly if it is clear, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Therefore, both the Matcha and the Red Panda will provide similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits through their polycarbonate top housings.
When it comes to the overall impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Matcha and the Red Panda may have differences in their bottom housing materials, the top housing materials provide similar results regarding the sound profile and performance of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some distinct differences. The Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Matcha switch. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Matcha requires a force of 45 grams, while the Red Panda needs 60 grams, which means that typing on the Red Panda switch would provide a more substantial and satisfying experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or intense gaming might gravitate towards the Matcha, while individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel would likely prefer the Red Panda. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages, so the decision would come down to personal preference and individual typing style.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer different options. The Matcha has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls into the more traditional range. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. If you're a gamer looking for fast response times, the Red Panda's shorter travel distance may be more appealing to you. It allows for quicker keystrokes and is preferred by many in the gaming community. However, if you enjoy a more substantial feel when typing, the Matcha's longer travel distance might be the better choice. This extra depth can provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a bit more resistance. So, when considering travel distance, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you're looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha switch offers a clacky sound when pressed. This means that when you type on these switches, you'll experience a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch provides a thocky sound. This results in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when the keys are pressed and released, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha switch offers a stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery typing experience. Stepped switches have two stages of tactility, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The snappy response of these switches is due to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. The accented characteristic refers to a medium tactile switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Finally, the feathery nature of these switches means they are exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience. These switches provide a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They offer a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users in terms of both sound and feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha switch and the Outemu Red Panda switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a clacky sound with a comfortable, snappy tactility during typing, while the Red Panda switch offers a thocky sound with a light-medium amount of tactility and a different sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that will provide distinct typing experiences. If you prefer a sharper, snappier sound and a feathery, responsive feel, the Matcha switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, satisfying sound and a mild typing experience, the Red Panda switch would be more suitable.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and comfortable tactile switch with a clean bottom-out sound and a snappy tactility, the KTT Matcha would be a great choice for you. The Matcha offers a stepped feel with accented tactility, making it neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, its feather-light actuation force ensures minimal strain on your fingers during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound with a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda would be the ideal option for you. The Red Panda provides a mild tactile experience that is approachable to most users. When it comes to sound, the Matcha produces a clacky sound, while the Red Panda offers a thocky sound. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Red Panda depends on your personal preferences for tactility and sound.
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