Outemu Peach vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Peach and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Peach and the Outemu Red Panda are two excellent options to consider. The Outemu Peach is a linear switch that stands out for its feather-lightweight feel and its silenced nature. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a smooth and gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. If you enjoy a bit more feedback while typing, the Red Panda is a great choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Peach and the Outemu Red Panda differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Outemu Peach features a nylon top housing, while the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Outemu Peach and the Red Panda utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, both switches would yield similar results due to their shared nylon bottom housing material.
When it comes to the overall impact of the housing materials, the top housing has a significant influence on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. As the Outemu Peach's top housing is composed of nylon, it would create a deeper and fuller sound when letting go of a key. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Red Panda would lead to a clearer and more resonant sound upon key release. Therefore, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for the desired sound profile during both key press and release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that the Peach has a lighter feel overall. The Peach has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile feedback during typing. While both switches have a distinct difference in their forces, they still provide a comfortable typing experience. If someone prefers a lighter and more effortless keystroke, the Outemu Peach would be the ideal choice. However, if someone enjoys a slightly heavier and more substantial feel while typing, the Outemu Red Panda would be a suitable option. Overall, the weight of the switches is worth considering depending on individual preferences and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the sensation felt when pressing down on a key. In the case of the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, both switches share the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that pressing down on either switch will result in a similar experience in terms of travel distance. Therefore, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.40. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Peach and Red Panda.
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 Peach switch is known for its neutral and muted characteristics. Being a linear switch, it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the switch is silenced, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is described as thocky, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Outemu Peach and Red Panda switches fall into the mild category, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes them approachable to most users, as their qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. The Outemu Peach switch also has the additional descriptors of subtle and polished. With a gentle resistance that is not feather-light, it still maintains a light typing feel. Moreover, the switch's sound signature will not be resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. The polished aspect of the switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Red Panda switch, on the other hand, is only described as mild without any additional descriptors mentioned.
In conclusion, the Outemu Peach and Red Panda switches have distinct subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Peach provides a lightweight and silenced linear experience with a neutral and muted sound profile. It offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most and has the added qualities of subtlety and polished finish. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a light-medium amount of tactility, a thocky sound profile, and a mild typing experience. While they have different characteristics, both switches fall into the mild category, providing a comfortable typing experience for users. Depending on your preferences and the desired sound and feel, either switch can deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a feathery light typing experience with a muted sound profile, the Outemu Peach is the ideal choice for you. These switches are perfect for linear lovers who want a smooth and lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility accompanied by a deep, rich sound when typing, the Outemu Red Panda is the better option. These switches offer a satisfying "thocky" sound and a gentle typing experience. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize a silent and lightweight feel or a tactile and bass-heavy typing experience. Consider your preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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