Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Red Panda offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying click sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch, providing a light-medium amount of tactility and a distinct bottom-out and top-out sound. While the Blue switch may appeal to those who enjoy auditory feedback and a precise typing experience, the Red Panda switch is ideal for those seeking a more subtle tactile feel with a deeper bottom-out sound. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Outemu Blue and Outemu Red Panda switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which helps create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common feature, the Outemu Blue and Red Panda switches differ in their bottom housing material.
The Outemu Blue switch is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities such as a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights how both switches aim to create a satisfying typing experience with their choice of materials.
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Outemu Red Panda switches, it is evident that the differences lie mainly in their bottom housing material while they share a common polycarbonate top housing. The top housing primarily influences the sound when pressing down on a key, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to deliver an enhanced typing experience by utilizing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. Whether opting for the Outemu Blue or Red Panda, users can expect a combination of clear, crisp sounds from the top polycarbonate housing and deep, fuller sounds from the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue switch does not provide information on the amount of force needed to fully press down, while the Red Panda switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Red Panda switch is heavier when it comes to fully pressing down the key. The difference in bottom out force suggests that the Red Panda switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lack of information on the bottom out force of the Blue switch may make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of comparison, the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance compared to the Blue switch. This means that the Red Panda will require less force to actuate the key and may result in a faster response time, making it preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Blue switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their varying travel distances, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for producing a loud and clicky sound, similar to a typewriter. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as producing a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying when pressed. The bottom-out sound of the Red Panda is bassier and raindrop-like, while the top-out sound is clackier and higher-pitched. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will be influenced by factors like the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Blue switch is known for None. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. These switches provide light to medium tactility, catering to those who prefer a gentle typing feel. The qualities of the Red Panda switch lie in a safe middle ground zone, making it approachable and comfortable for most users.
In conclusion, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Blue switch provides a loud and clicky typing experience, while the Red Panda switch offers a thocky sound and a mild tactile feel. Both switches have their unique attributes, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy one quality in particular, you may find similar satisfaction in the other switch as they both cater to specific typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences. If you enjoy a clicky and loud typing experience with no bottom out force, the Outemu Blue switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a medium bottom out force and a deeper, thocky sound, the Outemu Red Panda switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing feel and sound that you find most satisfying.
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