Outemu Purple vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Purple and the Outemu Red Panda. The purple switch is best known for its unique characteristics, falling under the category of 'Tactile'. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch stands out for its light-medium tactility, along with a bassy bottom-out sound and a clacky top-out sound. Categorized as 'Thocky' and 'Mild', the Red Panda offers a different typing experience compared to the Purple switch. If you are looking for a switch that provides a more traditional tactile feel, the purple may be the way to go. 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
2.00 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
Both the Outemu Purple and Red Panda switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite both switches using the same material for their top housings, the overall sound and feel of the switches may differ based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Outemu Purple and Red Panda switches utilize nylon, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. While the bottom housing material may not have as direct of an impact on the sound when typing as the top housing, it still plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for keyboard switches can greatly influence the sound and feel of typing. While both the Outemu Purple and Red Panda switches share the same top housing material, their use of different bottom housing materials may result in slightly different sound profiles. Understanding the characteristics of each housing material, such as the stiffness of polycarbonate and the sound absorption properties of nylon, can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Outemu Purple has an unknown value while the Outemu Red Panda requires 60 grams for bottoming out. This means that the Outemu Red Panda is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Outemu Purple.
In terms of weight, the Outemu Purple may be more suitable for those who prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. The Outemu Red Panda, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple 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 makes the Outemu Red Panda the shorter option between the two. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may feel more substantial and satisfying to some users. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the Purple providing a slightly deeper press compared to the Red Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Purple 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 Purple tactile switch is known for its quiet and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a unique thocky sound profile, producing a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. If you prefer a deeper, richer sound with each key press, the Red Panda may be the better choice for you.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch provides a smooth and consistent typing experience without any noticeable tactile bump. In comparison, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a mild amount of tactility, providing a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Red Panda may be more suitable for your preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience with minimal tactile feedback, the Purple may be the better option. However, if you prefer a unique thocky sound profile and a gentle tactile feel, the Red Panda could be the ideal choice for you. Regardless of your selection, both switches offer reliable performance and durability for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, you should consider the bottom out force and the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Outemu Purple may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a light-medium tactility with a thocky sound and a mild typing feel, the Outemu Red Panda would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
