Kailh Plum vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Plum and the Outemu Red Panda are two popular choices in the tactile switch category. The Plum is particularly notable for its unique combination of weightiness and a subtle tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, its tactility and weight are not strongly correlated. Furthermore, the Plum offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a light-medium amount of tactility and distinctive sound characteristics. Typing on these switches yields a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound, as well as a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. While these general pointers can help in selecting a switch, it is important to delve deeper into their features and characteristics to determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the Outemu Red Panda switches have several similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal.
Another similarity is found in the nylon bottom housing of both switches. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the typing experience on switches with nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound.
Despite these similarities, the qualities brought by the different housing materials are divided between the top and bottom housing of each switch. When pressing down on a key, the effects of the bottom housing material are felt, particularly influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Plum and the Outemu Red Panda switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, benefiting from its stiffness and clarity. The nylon bottom housing, on the other hand, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. While each housing material contributes to the overall sound characteristics, the division between top and bottom housing determines the specific influence on keypresses.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The actuation force for the Plum switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare with the Red Panda's 50 gram actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Plum at 70 grams (medium-heavy) and the Red Panda at 60 grams (medium).
The difference in weight between these switches can have varying impacts on the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Red Panda's lower actuation force may be more suitable, allowing for effortless typing over extended periods. This lightweight characteristic is advantageous for individuals who use their keyboard extensively for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. Conversely, users who desire a more substantial and tactile sensation when pressing keys may favor the Kailh Plum switch. Its heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
Although the exact actuation force for the Plum switch is unknown, it is safe to assume that achieving similar results to the Red Panda's actuation force of 50 grams may be possible. Both switches offer a tactile feedback, which enhances typing accuracy and ensures that keystrokes are registered accurately.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Plum and the Outemu Red Panda relies on personal preferences and individual typing style. Those seeking a lighter touch may find the Red Panda more suitable, while individuals desiring a heavier and more tactile experience may opt for the Plum switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of two tactile switches, the Kailh Plum and the Outemu Red Panda, differ in length. The Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda may be more appealing to you. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and deep keystroke experience may find the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Plum more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and whether one prefers a shorter, snappier response or a longer and more deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25, 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
The subjective qualities of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Plum switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. It does not have a huge tactile bump, making it unique compared to many other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch has a thocky sound, which is a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It has a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Plum and the Red Panda switches are described as mild. This means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Plum switch is also described as having a stepped feel, which means it has two stages and is milder in comparison to switches with a constant bump throughout the keystroke. The Red Panda switch's feel is not further specified, but it falls under the mild category.
Based on these subjective qualities, the Plum switch and the Red Panda switch both offer a similar mild typing experience. They can be described as having a similar sound profile, with the Plum being more neutral and the Red Panda being thocky. While the Plum switch has a unique lack of a huge tactile bump, the Red Panda switch offers a bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out sound. Overall, these switches are suitable for most intents and purposes and provide an enjoyable typing experience with a moderate level of tactility.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences for weightiness, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom out force, the Plum with its 70-gram bottom out force would be a good choice. Despite this weightiness, the Plum also offers a unique experience with its medium-sized tactile bump, making it stand out from other tactile switches. Additionally, the Plum has a neutral sound profile that is considered enjoyable by many. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Red Panda's 60-gram bottom out force would be more suitable. It offers a light-medium amount of tactility and produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda is described as having a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Overall, both switches have their own distinct characteristics, so consider your preferences for weight, tactility, sound, and feel when making a decision.
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