KTT Mint vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint 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 stand out are the KTT Mint and the Outemu Red Panda. The Mint is a linear switch, known for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience. With its long pole stem, it provides a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting feel. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch, offering a light-medium amount of tactility. Typing on these switches produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. While the Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Red Panda falls into the categories of 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and desired typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Red Panda switches are very similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Additionally, the top housing of a switch has a significant impact on the sound when you release a key, making polycarbonate an important factor in achieving the desired sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound. Because nylon is a relatively softer plastic, it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The bottom housing of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, making nylon an essential component for achieving the desired typing experience.
While the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Red Panda are slightly different between the top and bottom housings, their overall effect on the sound profile is similar. The polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the typing sound when keys are pressed. Both switches aim to deliver a satisfying auditory experience, and despite the variations in their housing materials, they achieve similar results in creating distinct and enjoyable sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we find some notable differences. The Mint has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Red Panda requires 50 grams to trigger a keystroke, making it slightly heavier. Additionally, the Mint has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Red Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Red Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches fall under the medium weight category, but the Mint leans towards the lighter end, while the Red Panda is slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Mint would be a suitable choice, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing, especially during work or gaming sessions. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Red Panda, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying push feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have different travel distances. The Mint has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Mint's 4.0 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a bit more depth and a satisfying feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Red Panda's 3.3 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. It offers a more responsive typing experience. While the Mint offers a deeper key press, some may find the Red Panda's shorter travel distance to be too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, 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
The KTT Mint linear switch is best known for its satisfyingly smooth feel when typing. It has a long pole stem which contributes to a poppy thockiness, creating a unique typing experience. The Mint switch also offers a light and fleeting feel, providing a smooth and quick typing experience.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a light to medium amount of tactility. This means that when typing on these switches, there is a noticeable bump in the keystroke. The Red Panda switch also produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This combination of tactile feedback and distinct sound creates a satisfying typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Mint switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Red Panda switch, on the other hand, is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Mint and Red Panda switches are described as mild. This means that they offer a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. Both switches are approachable to most users, as their qualities fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. The Mint switch is also described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have different subjective qualities. The Mint switch offers a satisfyingly smooth feel and a low-pitched sound profile, while the Red Panda switch provides a light-medium amount of tactility, a thocky sound, and a mild typing experience. Both switches offer a unique typing experience that is sure to appeal to different preferences. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Mint would be a great choice. With its long pole stem, it provides a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting typing feel. The Mint also has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, suitable for both beginners and more experienced typists in various environments. The feel of the Mint is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Red Panda is a fantastic option. When typing on these switches, you can expect a light-medium amount of tactility, alongside a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda is known for its thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. The feel of the Red Panda is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mint and the Outemu Red Panda depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize smoothness and a lighter touch, the Mint would be a great fit. However, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Red Panda might be the better choice for you. Both switches provide a mild feel that is approachable to most typists. So, consider your desired sound and feel preferences when making your decision.
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