Outemu Silent White vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Outemu Silent White and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, we can see clear distinctions in their characteristics. The Silent White is a linear switch, known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch, providing a light-medium amount of tactility along with unique sound characteristics such as a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. The Red Panda is categorized as 'Thocky' and 'Mild', offering a different typing experience compared to the Silent White. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent White 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 relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Additionally, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound thanks to their identical top housing material.
However, the Silent White and Red Panda differ in their bottom housing material, with the Silent White featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Red Panda also utilizing a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, the impact of each housing material is felt differently when typing on the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch reveals some interesting differences. The Silent White has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams, making it slightly easier to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of pressure required to fully press the keys. This means that while the Silent White may feel lighter initially, both switches ultimately require the same amount of pressure when completely depressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force, with the Silent White being the lighter option and the Red Panda offering a bit more pushback for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent travel experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. The similarity in their travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and feedback, whether they opt for the Silent White linear switch or the Red Panda tactile switch.Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a comfortable and consistent typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent White 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 Silent White linear switch is known for its quiet operation with no specific signature sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is praised for its thocky sound profile, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying noise when pressed. The Silent White will provide a more subtle typing experience in terms of sound, while the Red Panda will offer a more pronounced and satisfying auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Silent White switch is recognized for its smooth linear action without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Red Panda switch provides a light-medium amount of tactility, offering a more engaging typing experience. The Red Panda falls in the mild category of switches, providing a gentle typing sensation that will be approachable to most users. The Silent White, being a linear switch, will feel consistent and smooth during typing sessions.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Silent White linear switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience with a distinctive thocky sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be the way to go. Both switches offer their unique qualities, so the choice ultimately depends on your personal preference for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with no tactile feedback, the Silent White switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility alongside a unique sound profile that is thocky and satisfying, the Red Panda switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you as you type. Happy typing!
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