Outemu Silver vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Outemu Silver and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, we immediately notice the key differences in their characteristics. The Silver is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch, providing a light-medium amount of tactility along with distinctive bottom-out and top-out sounds. While the Silver is ideal for those who prefer a straightforward typing experience, the Red Panda caters to individuals who appreciate a more tactile and audible feedback while typing. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the Outemu Red Panda, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in the nuances of the sound profile each switch produces, as well as any aesthetic variations.
On the other hand, both switches also utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. While the differences in bottom housing material may not be as noticeable as the top housing, they can still contribute to the overall typing experience and sound of the switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Outemu Silver and Outemu Red Panda switches may result in similar sound profiles and typing experiences. The slight differences in material composition may affect the nuances of the sound produced when typing on each switch, but both are likely to offer a satisfying and tactile typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Silver switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver switch is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Red Panda's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of force, offering a balance between lightness and heaviness. The actuation force dictates the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Outemu Silver switch for longer typing periods or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Outemu Red Panda switch more suitable due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Silver switch offers a longer travel distance, providing a more traditional feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a deeper keypress (Silver) or a quicker, more responsive feel (Red Panda). Both switches have their own advantages and it's important to consider what suits your typing or gaming style best.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silver 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 comparing the sound of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we find that the Silver switch is known for producing a quiet and smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle sound while typing. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is recognized for its thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. This makes the Red Panda switch a great choice for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced and tactile typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of these two switches, the Outemu Silver switch is known for its linear action, providing a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible feedback. This can be preferred by users who prioritize smoothness and precision in their typing. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda switch is described as offering a mild tactile experience, with a light-medium amount of tactility that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone. This makes the Red Panda switch a versatile option for users who want a balance between feedback and smoothness while typing.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Silver switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Red Panda switch delivers a thocky sound and mild tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience desired. Regardless of the option chosen, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a smooth and consistent keystroke with medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silver switch is the way to go. However, if you appreciate a light-medium tactile feel with a unique raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, then the Outemu Red Panda switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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