Outemu Green vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Green and the Outemu Red Panda offer distinct typing experiences for users to consider. The Outemu Green switch is best known for its clicky feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy audible typing feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch is recognized for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when typing. While the Green switch offers a more distinct clicking sound, the Red Panda switch provides a softer and smoother 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
80g
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
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 Green and Outemu Red Panda switches, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add visual flair to their keyboard setup. Despite the similarities in top housing material, the switches differ in their choice of bottom housing material.
On the other hand, the Outemu Green and Outemu Red Panda switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This material choice leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housing. While both switches share this feature, their overall sound and feel will be influenced by the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the Outemu Green and Outemu Red Panda switches showcase how the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials can impact the typing experience differently. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key, adding another layer to the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Green switch is the heavier one with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Red Panda is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The actuation force of the Green switch is higher, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Red Panda offers a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Green switch being preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel, and the Red Panda being ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Green has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. The Green switch may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback due to its longer travel distance, while the Red Panda switch may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference; those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Outemu Green switch, while those looking for a quicker key response may lean towards the Outemu Red Panda switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Green 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 Green clicky switch is often associated with a loud and clicky sound, akin to that of typewriters. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a more subdued "thocky" sound, providing a deep and satisfying tone when typing. The Red Panda's sound profile is more bass-heavy, reminiscent of raindrops, with a distinct click on the upstroke.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Green switch is known for its tactile bump and audible click, providing a responsive typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a lighter tactility, falling into the "mild" category. This means that the Red Panda switch strikes a balance between being tactile without being too distracting, offering a gentler typing experience that may be preferable to those who find the Green switch too pronounced.
Taking into account both sound and feel characteristics, it is evident that the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Green switch caters to users who enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a louder sound profile, whereas the Red Panda switch provides a more subdued and gentle typing experience with a thocky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Green clicky switch or the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound with a higher pitch, the Green switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a thocky sound with a deeper tone, and a more mild tactile feel, the Red Panda switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Consider these factors carefully before making your selection.
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