Durock Piano vs. Outemu Red Panda

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Piano and the Outemu Red Panda offer distinct experiences for users with different preferences. The Durock Piano, a linear switch, stands out for its proprietary material blend, which results in a smooth and pleasant typing experience. Users can expect a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature when using these switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch, offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, catering to different typing styles and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch is best suited for you.

By the numbers

Durock Piano Linear

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Piano and the Outemu Red Panda exhibit notable differences in terms of their sound profiles and material properties. The Piano features a proprietary POM blend top housing, which offers a deep and satisfying sound profile. In contrast, the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both housings provide unique sound characteristics, the POM blend of the Piano focuses on a more full-bodied and resonant sound, while the polycarbonate of the Red Panda emphasizes a clear and vibrant tone. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for incorporating RGB lighting.

Similarly, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Piano employs a proprietary POM blend, while the Red Panda utilizes nylon. Both materials contribute to the overall sound profile but in distinct ways. The POM blend bottom housing of the Piano delivers a deep and satisfying sound, complementing the top housing's resonant qualities. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda produces a fuller and more rounded sound by absorbing more sound due to its relatively softer nature. This creates a duller yet pleasing auditory experience.

It is important to note that if a switch incorporates different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the bottom-out sound and the key release sound. The bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the sensation and sound when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will primarily influence the sound when releasing a key. Consequently, both the Durock Piano and the Outemu Red Panda provide distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback, with the materials used in their housings playing a crucial role in shaping these characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Firstly, the Piano's actuation force is unavailable, while the Red Panda requires a force of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Piano has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Red Panda's 60 grams.

In terms of weight, both switches can offer satisfying typing experiences. The lighter actuation force of the Red Panda allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. The Piano, on the other hand, provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. This can be preferable for users seeking a stronger push feel and a more pronounced tactile feedback.

While the specific actuation force of the Piano is unknown, its medium-heavy bottom out force suggests that it might provide a similar typing experience to the Red Panda, albeit with a slightly heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preferences. If a lighter weight is desired, the Red Panda would be the preferred option, while those seeking a heavier and more substantial feel may opt for the Piano.

Travel distance

The Durock Piano linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have different travel distances. The Piano has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Piano's 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, offering a deeper and more substantial feeling when the key is pressed. On the other hand, the Red Panda's 3.3 mm travel distance is shallower, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive keyboard experience, the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda may be the better option. However, if you enjoy a more substantive and immersive typing experience, the longer travel distance of 4.0 mm provided by the Durock Piano may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired feel while typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Piano linear switch is best described as having a deep and creamy sound signature. The proprietary material blend used in these switches creates a pleasant and smooth sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a unique sound profile. It has a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This creates a distinctive and satisfying auditory experience when typing. It is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. However, based on the available information, the Piano linear switch will provide a deeper and richer sound, while the Red Panda tactile switch will offer a more distinct and satisfying sound.

In terms of feel, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its frictionless and silky typing experience. These switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The fluid travel of the switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. The qualities of these switches make them comfortable to use without being too pronounced or overwhelming. Overall, the Piano linear switch will provide a frictionless and silky feel, while the Red Panda tactile switch offers a milder and more gentle typing experience.

In conclusion, the Durock Piano linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Piano linear switch provides a deep, creamy sound signature and a frictionless, silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda tactile switch offers a bassier, raindrop-like sound with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, as well as a mild and gentle typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that will cater to different preferences. It is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard board and keycap choices when choosing between these switches. However, with these available options, users can find similar results in terms of sound and feel based on their desired sound profiles and typing experiences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pleasant typing experience, the Durock Piano switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are known for their gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature, making them a joy to type on. Additionally, the Piano switch offers a frictionless and silky smooth typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Red Panda switch could be the right fit for you. These switches provide a light-medium amount of tactility and a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound, creating a more unique and satisfying typing experience. While the Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience, its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of typists. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for switch type, bottom out force, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more