Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro with its linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda with its tactile switch, each offers unique characteristics to consider. The V3 Piano Pro's Piano Pro switches are praised for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda switches offer a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a distinctive bottom-out and top-out sound profile. While the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', the Red Panda is labeled as 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Outemu Red Panda, a clear distinction can be made between nylon and polycarbonate. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic makeup. While both materials have their unique characteristics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the V3 Piano Pro and the Red Panda feature nylon material. This material is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can create a deeper and fuller sound experience compared to switches with harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not have as significant of an impact on the overall sound profile as the top housing, it still plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall typing sensation.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials in switches ultimately depends on the user's preferences. The V3 Piano Pro and the Red Panda offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on their respective housing materials. While the V3 Piano Pro with nylon housing may provide a deeper and fuller sound, the Red Panda with polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches are designed to cater to different preferences, providing users with a variety of options to suit their typing style and sound preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two housing materials will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams. Additionally, the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams in contrast to the Red Panda's 60 grams. This means that the V3 Piano Pro provides a lighter typing experience overall. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, with the V3 Piano Pro being slightly lighter than the Red Panda. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the V3 Piano Pro more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Red Panda for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may opt for the Red Panda. Both switches offer shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, catering to users who prefer a quicker key actuation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy experience that is clean and immersive. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch delivers a thocky sound, with a deep, rich, and satisfying tone that is reminiscent of a soft thud or knock. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the V3 Piano Pro focusing on a lively, crisp quality while the Red Panda provides a bassier and clackier sound. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can expect different sound characteristics from each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a range of descriptors such as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. These qualities result in a typing experience that is lively, smooth, refined, and exceptionally smooth, respectively. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. With a focus on a safe middle-ground zone, the Red Panda switch offers a comfortable typing feel that may suit a wider range of preferences. While the V3 Piano Pro emphasizes bounce, smoothness, and refinement, the Red Panda prioritizes a mild and gentle typing sensation that aims to cater to a broad user base.
Overall, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Piano Pro provides a snappy and resonant sound with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, while the Red Panda delivers a thocky sound and a mild tactile experience. Both switches have their unique strengths and characteristics, offering users a choice between a lively, crisp typing experience or a gentle, approachable feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing styles, users can choose the switch that best suits their needs for an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and like a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound with a light-medium amount of tactility, the Red Panda switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, so it comes down to personal preference and what feels best to you when typing.
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