Outemu Black vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Black and the Outemu Red Panda. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch, providing a light-medium amount of tactility along with a unique sound profile that includes a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While the Black switch may be preferred for its simplicity and straightforward typing experience, the Red Panda switch offers a more tactile and auditory feedback for those who enjoy a more immersive 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
65g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Outemu Red Panda, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In terms of sound quality, the polycarbonate top housing contributes significantly to the overall sound profile of both switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Black and the Outemu Red Panda distinguishes the two switches in terms of sound characteristics. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for switches equipped with nylon bottom housings. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a noticeable contrast in sound when typing on the Outemu Black compared to the Red Panda, with the Black potentially offering a duller and rounder sound due to its nylon bottom housing.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Outemu Red Panda share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the distinction lies in the nylon bottom housing. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of the Red Panda may result in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Black, which features a nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch contributes to the overall typing experience and sound output, making them suitable options for different preferences in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Black switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Red Panda's lighter 50 grams. Similarly, the Black switch also has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, while the Red Panda bottoms out at 60 grams. The Black switch provides a heavier and more substantial typing experience, while the Red Panda offers a lighter touch for smoother typing. Those who prefer a heavier push feel may opt for the Black switch, while those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Red Panda more appealing. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see that the Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. The Black switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keypress feel, as it offers more travel distance for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch with its shorter travel distance can be more appealing to individuals looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer different travel distances to cater to a variety of preferences, with the Black being the longer option and the Red Panda being the shorter option for keypresses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10, 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
Regarding sound, the Outemu Black linear switch is known for being relatively quiet, with a smooth and consistent keystroke that produces a low-key bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is recognized for its unique combination of a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, giving it a distinct thocky sound profile. The differences in sound between these two switches can be attributed to their design and construction, as well as the overall typing experience they offer.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch provides a straightforward and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback or audible click. It offers a smooth keystroke with a linear actuation, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer a linear feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a light to medium amount of tactility, providing a more pronounced feedback with a satisfying bump during actuation. The mild tactile feel of the Red Panda switch adds a layer of feedback for typists who enjoy a tactile typing experience without the harshness of a click.
In conclusion, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Black switch provides a quiet and smooth linear typing experience, the Red Panda switch offers a unique combination of a tactile bump and thocky sound. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Both switches will deliver reliable performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Black linear switch or the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier bottom-out force and a linear switch with no tactile bump, the Outemu Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom-out force, a tactile bump for added feedback, and a unique sound profile described as "thocky," then the Outemu Red Panda could be the switch for you. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so take into account what you value most in a keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience and matches your preferences.
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