Outemu Brown vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that they both offer a tactile typing experience. The Outemu Brown is known for its neutrality and falls into the tactile switch category. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda stands out for its light-medium tactility, bassier bottom-out sound, and clackier top-out sound. It is categorized as a 'Thocky' and 'Mild' switch. While the Brown switch is a solid choice for those looking for a straightforward tactile typing experience, the Red Panda offers a unique sound profile and a more pronounced tactile feel. 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
53g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Brown and Outemu Red Panda switches have significant similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
Despite their similar housing materials, the Outemu Brown and Outemu Red Panda switches differ in how these materials impact their sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a distinct sound when pressing down and releasing a key, with the Brown's housing producing a more resonant sound compared to the Red Panda's. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing. These differences in sound quality can make a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience, with the Brown offering a sharper and more pronounced sound compared to the Red Panda.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Brown and Outemu Red Panda switches share similar housing materials, they exhibit differences in their sound profiles due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience, with the Brown providing a more resonant sound compared to the Red Panda.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Brown switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams, making the Brown switch better suited for those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Brown at 65 grams and the Red Panda at 60 grams, providing a comparable typing experience in terms of bottoming out. Those who enjoy a lighter typing experience may find the Red Panda more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial feel may lean towards the Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Outemu Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Red Panda. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda for faster response times, while those who prefer a more tactile and deeper feel may opt for the Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Brown 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 Brown tactile switch is typically known for being relatively quiet with a subtle tactile bump. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is often praised for its distinctive thocky sound, which provides a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience. The Red Panda's bottom-out sound has been likened to a bassy raindrop, while the top-out sound is described as clackier and higher-pitched. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is known for its light tactility, providing a gentle bump when pressed. The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, on the other hand, is often characterized as offering a mild typing experience. This means that the keypresses with Red Panda switches won't have an overly pronounced tactile bump, resulting in a more approachable and middle-ground typing sensation that can be enjoyed by a wide range of users.
Overall, the Outemu Brown and Outemu Red Panda tactile switches offer distinctly different experiences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile bump, the Outemu Brown switches may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper, thocky sound and a milder tactile feel, the Outemu Red Panda switches would be a great choice. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and are reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the bottom out force and typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and a standard tactile typing experience, the Brown switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, along with a unique sound profile described as "Thocky" and a mild typing feel, the Red Panda switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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