Outemu Red vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red and Outemu Red Panda offer distinct experiences for users. The Outemu Red is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel with no tactile feedback or audible click. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch, providing a light-medium amount of tactility along with a unique bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While the Red offers a seamless typing experience, the Red Panda offers a more tactile and auditory 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
46g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.10 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
The Outemu Red and the Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches equipped with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through. This material is common in switches with clear housing, making it a popular choice for both the Red and Red Panda.
Both switches also feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience of each switch.
Overall, the similarities between the housing materials of the Outemu Red and the Outemu Red Panda result in similar sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches benefit from the clear, sharp, and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing, as well as the deep and full sound created by the nylon bottom housing. While there may be subtle differences in sound due to the specific design of each switch, the use of similar housing materials ensures a consistent and high-quality typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
The Outemu Red linear switch has a lower actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch with an actuation force of 50 grams, making the Red lighter in terms of initial keypress. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red Panda has a slightly lower force of 60 grams compared to the Red's 62 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Red, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier typing experience may prefer the Outemu Red Panda. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced typing experience with slight variations in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear 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 shorter travel distance compared to the Red linear switch. The Red linear switch, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a more traditional typing experience, while the Red Panda's 3.3 mm travel distance offers a quicker and more responsive feel, making it a favorite among gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Red Panda would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper keypress, the Red linear switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable for you.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red 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 Red linear switch is known for having a neutral sound profile, without any distinctive characteristics. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a unique sound experience with a thocky bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, creating a more dynamic auditory feedback when typing. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red linear switch is typically described as having a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a light to medium amount of tactility, offering a more engaging typing experience. The tactile bump in these switches is subtle, providing a gentle feedback that is comfortable for extended typing sessions, making them suitable for a wider range of users.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a straightforward typing experience and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Red might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that offers a unique sound profile and a gentle tactile bump, the Outemu Red Panda could be a great option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, so it's recommended to try out both switches if possible to see which one suits you best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the type of experience you prefer while typing. If you prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile feedback, then the Outemu Red linear switch with its medium bottom out force may be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a subtle but noticeable tactile bump during typing, along with a unique sound profile characterized as "thocky," then the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch with its slightly lower bottom out force might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice should be based on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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