Outemu Milk Blue vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Red Panda offer distinct typing experiences. The Milk Blue switch, known for its clicky sound, falls under the category of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is recognized for its light-medium tactility and unique sound profile, categorized as a tactile switch with 'thocky' and mild characteristics. Choosing the Milk Blue switch may appeal to those who enjoy the satisfying click sound with each key press, while the Red Panda switch could be preferred by individuals looking for a tactile typing experience with a softer 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
The main difference between the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Red Panda lies in their bottom housing materials. While the Milk Blue features a nylon bottom housing, the Red Panda also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on either switch, creating a more satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a quieter keyboard.
In contrast, the top housing material of the Milk Blue and the Red Panda is made of polycarbonate for both switches. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the clear and resonant sound of the switches, making keystrokes more distinct and tactile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing users with a visually appealing experience.
Overall, while the top housing material of the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Red Panda is the same, their bottom housing materials differ. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Milk Blue providing a sharper sound profile due to its polycarbonate top housing and the Red Panda offering a deeper sound profile thanks to its nylon bottom housing. However, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch ensures that users will enjoy a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience no matter which switch they choose.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light to press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red Panda requires 60 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. The Red Panda offers a slightly heavier typing experience with its higher bottom out force, providing a more substantial feel when pressing the keys all the way down. In contrast, the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unspecified, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of keypress resistance. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Milk Blue for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the Red Panda for a more tactile and weighted typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Milk Blue has a longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda, making it slightly slower in terms of key response. However, the difference between the two distances is minimal, and both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances. Gamers may prefer the Red Panda for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may opt for the Milk Blue with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced typing experience, but the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Milk 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 Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its crisp and clicky sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy an audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as having a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance your typing experience, but the Milk Blue will provide a sharper and clickier sound compared to the Red Panda's deeper thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Milk Blue switch doesn't have a specific descriptor provided, but typically clicky switches like the Milk Blue offer a tactile bump and audible click when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in the middle ground in terms of tactility. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the Red Panda will offer a softer and more approachable typing experience compared to the potentially more intense and crisp feel of the Milk Blue.
Overall, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Milk Blue provides a crisp and clicky typing experience with a potentially sharper sound, while the Red Panda offers a deeper and more satisfying thocky sound with a milder and more gentle tactility. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a clicky switch with no bottom out force and a distinctive sound, the Milk Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, a thocky sound, and a mild typing feel, then the Red Panda might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most comfortable and enjoyable.
Mentioned in this article
