Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, categorized as a switch with a tactile bump and audible click sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch, providing a light-medium amount of tactility with a distinctive bottom-out sound resembling raindrops and a higher-pitched top-out sound. Both switches have their strengths, with the Dustproof Blue excelling in providing a satisfying click feedback, while the Red Panda offers a smoother typing experience with its thocky 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
65g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Red Panda, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for RGB lighting due to their translucency. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Red Panda also includes a nylon bottom housing but absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Due to the differences in the bottom housing materials, typing on the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Red Panda will result in distinct sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Blue provides a deep and full sound, while the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller tone. However, the polycarbonate top housings of both switches contribute to a similar sharp and crisp sound profile, making them ideal for those seeking a higher-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a deeper or rounder sound profile is preferred during typing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Red Panda play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, their differing nylon bottom housings result in distinct sound characteristics. The Dustproof Blue offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Red Panda provides a duller and rounder sound. Whether one prefers a sharper sound with the Dustproof Blue or a softer tone with the Red Panda, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have similar actuation forces of 50 grams, which means they both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Dustproof Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Red Panda's 60 grams. This means that the Dustproof Blue switch will provide a slightly heavier typing experience when pressing all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Red Panda might be the better option, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Blue switch. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, which gives users a balance between responsiveness and typing comfort.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Dustproof Blue offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a shorter travel distance, which can appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, with the Dustproof Blue being slightly longer and the Red Panda being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof 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 Dustproof Blue clicky switch is known for its distinctive clicky sound that many enthusiasts enjoy for its audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a unique thocky sound with a bassier bottom-out and a clackier top-out sound, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Dustproof Blue.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have a specific description available, but generally clicky switches are known for their tactile bump and audible click during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, with gentle tactility that appeals to a wide range of users seeking a comfortable typing feel.
Overall, both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. If you prefer a clicky switch with a satisfying audible feedback, the Dustproof Blue would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a mild tactile feel with a thocky sound profile, the Red Panda would be a suitable option. Ultimately, personal preference in sound and feel will play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not too concerned about sound and feel characteristics, the Dustproof Blue may be the one for you. However, if you value a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, along with a thocky sound and mild feel that offers a pleasant typing experience for most users, then the Red Panda could be the better choice. Consider how you type, the sound and feel you prefer, and the specific qualities that matter most to you when making your decision between these two switches.
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