Cherry MX Orange vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Red Panda offer distinct characteristics catering to different user preferences. The Cherry MX Orange, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance, making it ideal for users who prioritize fast and uninterrupted typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch that strikes an appealing balance with its light to medium tactility, producing a bassy, raindrop-like sound on bottom-out and a sharper, clackier sound on the key release. This combination makes it suitable for those who appreciate feedback while typing but do not want the overwhelming loudness often associated with clicky switches. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prefer a seamless, linear experience or a tactile one with auditory 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Red Panda switches, a notable contrast arises in the composition of their top housings. The MX Orange features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder acoustic output that many typists appreciate for its muted characteristics. Conversely, the Outemu Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, a material recognized for its rigidity and translucence, which delivers a sharper, crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for better sound resonance, creating a pronounced auditory experience especially beneficial for those who favor a more vibrant and active typing noise. The aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate is also noteworthy; its clear properties enhance RGB lighting effects, making it an appealing choice for users who appreciate illuminated setups.
However, when analyzing the bottom housings of both switches, we see a significant similarity. The Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Red Panda both incorporate nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that both switches will provide a similar deeper, fuller sound profile emanating from the base of each key when bottomed out. The nylon material excels in sound absorption, serving to create a more muted and rounded experience during key presses, regardless of the top housing's material. Therefore, while the top housing differences between the two switches lead to distinct sound signatures during key release, their nylon bottom housings will ensure that the tactile sound and feel at the key's bottom-out stage remain consistent.
Ultimately, the diverging top housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Red Panda lead to contrasting auditory experiences, yet their shared nylon bottom housing bridges the gap and introduces a layer of continuity. Users who appreciate the deeper sound profile afforded by nylon in both switches will find comfort in this shared trait. Meanwhile, those favoring the sharper sound of polycarbonate will find that this quality influences primarily the sound created upon releasing the key. The interaction of these two contrasting materials means that when typing, users will experience a dynamic blend of both worlds: the rich warmth of nylon combined with the bright clarity of polycarbonate, allowing for a multifaceted typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch exhibit distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The MX Orange features an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Red Panda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Red Panda will require less force to register a keystroke, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the MX Orange's actuation force is heavier, appealing to those who desire a more substantial feel while typing. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Orange does not have a specified value, while the Red Panda's bottom out force is 60 grams, indicating a firmer resistance when fully depressed. Consequently, the Outemu Red Panda is the heavier option overall, given its higher bottom out force and lower actuation force. Thus, users seeking a lighter experience may gravitate towards the Red Panda, while those who appreciate a weightier typing sensation might prefer the Cherry MX Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences among users. The Cherry MX Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is on the traditional side, offering a more substantial depth for keystrokes that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, aligning with the current trend among gamers who prefer quicker response times for improved performance. Therefore, if you value a more responsive and brisk keystroke experience, the Red Panda may be the better choice, whereas if you enjoy the tactile sensation of a deeper press, the Cherry MX Orange would likely be more satisfying. In summary, the MX Orange provides a longer travel distance, while the Red Panda offers a shorter one, catering to different typing and gaming styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Red Panda switches, the MX Orange is characterized by a smooth and nearly silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Red Panda switch produces a more pronounced acoustic signature, featuring a deeper, thocky sound upon bottoming out and a higher-pitched clack when the key is released. This difference in sound can significantly affect the typing experience, as the MX Orange allows for discreet use while the Red Panda caters to those who enjoy an audible response from their keystrokes.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switches deliver a linear experience with a smooth keypress that lacks tactile feedback, which is suited for rapid, uninterrupted typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switches offer a light to medium amount of tactility in their design, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. This mild tactility allows the user to feel the actuation point without it being overly pronounced, striking a balance that can be comfortable for both casual and more dedicated typists.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Red Panda switches offer different auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to differing preferences among users. If you favor a quieter, linear switch, the MX Orange is an optimal choice, whereas if you appreciate a touch of tactility along with a richer sound profile, the Red Panda would be more suitable. While they might appeal to different typing styles, both switches can deliver satisfying performance based on individual needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you lean towards a smooth, fluid typing experience without any tactile bumps, the MX Orange would be the way to go, especially if you appreciate the original craftsmanship behind these reissued switches. Their lightweight feel allows for effortless keypresses, making them ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming scenarios where swift movements are crucial. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile sensation while typing and prefer a richer, deeper sound, the Outemu Red Panda could be your best bet. These switches offer a light-medium tactility that provides feedback without being overly pronounced, striking a balance that suits both casual use and focused typing sessions. Plus, the satisfying thocky sound adds an audibly pleasing element that many typists cherish. Ultimately, considering your typing habits and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard will help you choose the switch that best fits your needs.
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