KTT Orange vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange 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 Orange and the Outemu Red Panda. Both switches offer unique features and characteristics that appeal to different types of typists. The KTT Orange switch, known for its bouncy feel and frictionless typing experience, is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch boasts a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. This switch caters to individuals who enjoy a thocky typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Orange and the Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Orange uses polycarbonate while the Outemu Red Panda opts for nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Orange switch contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, similar to the top housing. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing in the Red Panda provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the Red Panda switch will deliver a different typing experience compared to the KTT Orange due to their contrasting bottom housing materials.
In terms of feel, the qualities each housing material brings are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on either the KTT Orange or the Outemu Red Panda will primarily showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, releasing a key will be more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, while there may be differences in sound and feel between the two switches due to their differing bottom housings, the impact of the top housing remains more consistent across both options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have similar characteristics. The actuation force of the Orange switch is 46 grams, whereas the Red Panda switch requires slightly more force at 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Orange switch is 53 grams, while the Red Panda switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams.
In terms of weight, the Orange switch is lighter as it requires less force for both actuation and bottom out. This makes it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, enabling them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. The Red Panda switch, on the other hand, provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can be beneficial for those who prefer a stronger push feel during typing.
Overall, while there are slight differences in the actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches, they both fall within the medium-light to medium range. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, with the main distinction being the preference for a lighter touch with the KTT Orange switch or a heavier push feel with the Outemu Red Panda switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have different travel distances. The Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing down on the keys, the Red Panda might be the better choice for you due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a deeper keystroke and find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, the Orange with its slightly longer travel distance could be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 Orange switch offers a low-pitched tone that is bass-heavy and mellow. This creates a smoother and more relaxed auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch produces a thocky sound, which is characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. It has a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preferences and the accompanying keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless feedback sensation. With a 22mm long spring, these switches give a spring-like or elastic response, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The frictionless feature ensures smooth and effortless typing by minimizing any resistance or friction when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls into a safe middle-ground zone, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Orange switch stands out for its bouncy and frictionless feel, along with its low-pitched sound profile. It offers a slick and smooth typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. The Outemu Red Panda switch, on the other hand, provides a mild feel and a thocky sound with its bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out. While each switch has its own unique qualities, both can offer an enjoyable typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its bouncy and frictionless feel, these switches provide a spring-like feedback and effortless typing experience. The Orange switch also features excellent factory-lubing, ensuring a refined and fluid key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a mild amount of tactility and a thocky sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a suitable option. These switches offer a gentle typing experience and produce a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Overall, the decision between the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound and feel.
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