Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Red Panda. The MX Speed Silver is a linear switch known for its lightning-fast response time, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for a competitive edge. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda offers a tactile typing experience with a unique bottom-out and top-out sound profile. The Speed Silver is ideal for those seeking quick, precise keystrokes, while the Red Panda caters to typists who enjoy a bit of feedback with each keypress. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Red Panda switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their unique properties. The MX Speed Silver uses Nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. The difference in housing materials highlights how the choice of plastic can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
While both switches utilize Nylon for their bottom housing, the distinct difference in their top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and aesthetics. The MX Speed Silver's Nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the Red Panda's Nylon bottom housing similarly enhances the typing experience by absorbing more sound. However, the use of polycarbonate in the Red Panda's top housing gives it a unique advantage in terms of clarity and sharpness in sound. This contrast showcases how the combination of different housing materials can result in varied sensory feedback for the user.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Red Panda comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The MX Speed Silver's use of Nylon for both its top and bottom housing provides a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Red Panda's combination of polycarbonate and Nylon in its housing materials offers a sharper and clearer sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a more distinct typing experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, providing a fast and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Red Panda requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, giving a more substantial push feel. Additionally, while the bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown, the Red Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a medium resistance when fully pressing down on the key. For users who prefer a lighter touch, the MX Speed Silver would be a better choice, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more robust typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Red Panda with its heavier forces for a more tactile and satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches. The MX Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Red Panda offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. While the difference in distance is minimal, it may still impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the MX Speed Silver, as its slightly longer travel distance can provide a bit more feedback. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may prefer the Red Panda for its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a compact and responsive feel that can enhance typing or gaming performance, with the choice between them coming down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch also offers a thocky sound profile, which provides a similar deep and rich tactile experience. Both switches can offer a pleasant auditory feedback, with the Red Panda providing a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound compared to the Speed Silver.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, providing a tactile sensation with noticeable friction when pressed. This can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a mild tactile experience, falling into a safe middle-ground zone that should be approachable for most users. The Red Panda's tactile feedback is gentle and comfortable, providing a smooth typing experience without significant friction.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Speed Silver excels in rapid response and low spring resistance, ideal for gaming, the Red Panda provides a more versatile typing experience with its light-medium tactility and pleasant sound profile. Depending on individual preferences and use cases, users can choose between the distinct characteristics of these two switches to best suit their typing or gaming needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are a competitive gamer or someone who values speed and responsiveness above all else, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch would be the ideal choice for your mechanical keyboard. Its instant triggering and low spring resistance make it perfect for situations where split-second reactions matter. On the other hand, if you are a typist who appreciates a light amount of tactility and enjoys a satisfying sound while typing, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Its medium bottom out force and unique sound profile create an enjoyable typing experience that is perfect for everyday use. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your specific preferences and intended use for your keyboard.
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