Outemu Ocean vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Red Panda, also a tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Ocean is best known for its unique characteristics, categorized as distinctive. On the other hand, the Red Panda stands out for its light-medium tactility, bassier bottom-out sound, and clackier top-out sound, categorized as thocky and mild. While the Ocean may offer a different typing experience, the Red Panda provides a satisfying sound profile for those who enjoy a mix of bassy and clacky tones. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Ocean and Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other materials. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in the nylon bottom housing of each switch. The Ocean features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Ocean and Red Panda switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, their nylon bottom housings offer distinct sound profiles. The Ocean's bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a softer and duller sound compared to the Ocean. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how the materials used can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, even when the top housing material remains consistent.
The split between the top and bottom housings of the Ocean and Red Panda switches allows for a more nuanced typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In contrast, the top housing material has a more significant effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. By combining different materials in the top and bottom housings, switch manufacturers can tailor the sound profile and typing experience to meet the preferences of users, highlighting the importance of housing materials in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Red Panda is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Ocean's 55 grams. The bottom out force of the Red Panda is also heavier at 60 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches highlights the varying levels of tactile feedback and resistance offered by each. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Red Panda for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Ocean for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile 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 Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Ocean. The 4 mm travel distance of the Ocean is more traditional and may provide a more tactile feel with a deeper press, which some users may prefer for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Red Panda offers a quicker response time, making it popular among gamers looking for faster key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Ocean offering a deeper key press and the Red Panda providing a quicker response for those who prefer a shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Ocean 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 Ocean and Red Panda switches offer distinct experiences. While the Ocean's sound profile is undefined, the Red Panda is known for its thocky sound, characterized by a deep and satisfying thud when keys are pressed and released. The Ocean's sound may vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, while the Red Panda consistently delivers a unique auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Ocean switch does not have a defined tactile description. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch is known for its mild tactility, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. This means that the Red Panda offers a comfortable typing feel that is approachable to most users, without being overly pronounced or aggressive.
In conclusion, the Outemu Ocean and Red Panda switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with undefined sound characteristics and unspecified tactile feedback, the Ocean may be the choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound profile and mild tactility that provides a comfortable typing experience, the Red Panda would be a suitable option. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfactory results, but the choice between them will depend on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with no bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility alongside a satisfying sound profile, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Keep in mind the characteristics of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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