Outemu Red Panda vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are two popular options that offer different experiences: the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch, and the KTT Semi Mute, a linear switch. The Red Panda is best known for its light-medium amount of tactility, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. Its bottom-out sound is described as bassier, akin to raindrops, while the top-out sound has a clackier, higher-pitched tone. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches, despite their name, operate silently, making them perfect for those who prefer a noise-free environment, especially during late-night sessions. These switches feature a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, providing a comfortable typing feel. Though each switch has its strong points, let's explore further to help you make the best decision based on your preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.40 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The main difference between the housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the KTT Semi Mute lies in their bottom housings. The Red Panda uses a nylon bottom housing while the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This means that when you press down on the Red Panda switch, you will experience a duller and rounder bottom-out sound and feel, while with the Semi Mute, the bottom-out sound will be clearer and more resonant.

Additionally, both the Red Panda and the Semi Mute have polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of the top housing, both switches will provide a similar sound profile, as they both utilize polycarbonate.

Overall, the main contrasting factor between the Red Panda and the Semi Mute lies in their bottom housings. The Red Panda's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound. However, both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, offering a similar sound profile when it comes to releasing a key. So while their top housings may provide similar results, the choice between the Red Panda and the Semi Mute will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a duller, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound when it comes to typing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we can observe both similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Red Panda requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Semi Mute requires slightly lighter pressure at 43 grams. Although the Red Panda is slightly heavier in this aspect, both switches fall within the medium range of force.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Red Panda requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, while the Semi Mute requires 58 grams. Once again, both switches showcase similar characteristics, with the Red Panda being slightly heavier.

Considering weight, it is worth noting that some individuals prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as it allows for reduced finger fatigue. In this regard, the Semi Mute may be a more favorable option due to its lighter actuation force and bottom out force.

Alternatively, there are users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces are usually preferred. In this case, both the Red Panda and Semi Mute options would provide a comparable typing experience, as their forces are relatively similar.

To summarize, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Semi Mute linear switch. However, both switches fall within the medium range of force, providing a balanced typing experience. The choice between the two would depend on individual preferences, with the Semi Mute being lighter and more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the Red Panda may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference in the distance traveled. The Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, whereas the Semi Mute has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, the Semi Mute has a slightly longer travel distance than the Red Panda.

In terms of preference, it is important to consider individual needs and preferences. A travel distance of 4.0 mm, like that of the Semi Mute, is considered more traditional. This depth may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Red Panda's travel distance of 3.3 mm falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. This shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times.

Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If a shorter travel distance and increased responsiveness are desired, the Red Panda would be the preferable option. However, if a deeper, more substantial key press is preferred, then the Semi Mute with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Both switches offer their own strengths and it is important to consider what works best for each individual.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a unique experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a light-medium amount of tactility along with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This combination creates a thocky sound that can be quite satisfying when pressed and released. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is designed for those who value a noise-free environment. Despite its name, the switch operates completely silently. It produces a muted sound, which means it is softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes the KTT Semi Mute switches ideal for those who desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a mild typing experience. These switches offer a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The typing sensation is comfortable and falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is marketed as "buttery." This means that the keystroke experience is smooth, fluid, and effortless. The switch provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation, which can enhance the overall satisfaction while using the keyboard. Like the Red Panda, the Semi Mute switch also falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is suitable for most users.

In conclusion, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Red Panda produces a thocky sound with a light-medium amount of tactility and stands out with its bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out sound. The Semi Mute, despite its name, operates silently, providing a muted sound that minimizes noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Red Panda offers a mild typing experience, while the Semi Mute provides a buttery and effortless keystroke with a similar mild feel. Both switches are suitable for most users, but the choice between them will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing and sound experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a more tactile typing experience with a bassier and clackier sound profile, the Red Panda switch is a great choice. It offers a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a mild feel that is approachable to most typists. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute switch is the way to go. Despite being completely silent, it offers a gratifying and buttery typing feel with a medium bottom out force of 58 grams. Additionally, it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your sound and feel preferences before making a choice.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more