Outemu Red Panda vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Red Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Red Panda provides a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. It is categorized as "Thocky" and "Mild", offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch boasts a medium-high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches produces deep, resonating thocks. They are categorized as "Clacky", "High-pitched", "Sharp", "Accented", "Snappy", "Bouncy", and "Stepped". Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share many similarities. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it a great choice for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, although the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing.
One significant difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda absorbs more sound due to its relatively softer material, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This implies that when typing on the Red Panda, the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced more by the nylon housing, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing will have a stronger impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that the overall sound profiles of the switches will exhibit similarities due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing. Both switches will possess a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when keys are released. However, the distinct characteristics of the different bottom housings will contribute to noticeable variations in the sound profiles and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can see that they are both in the medium range. The Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is slightly heavier than the Red Panda in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. However, both switches fall within the medium range, providing a balanced typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter feel may find the Red Panda more suitable, as it requires a slightly lighter touch for keystrokes. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may be preferred by those who desire a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The traditional travel distance for switches is 4.0 mm, while 3.0 mm is considered the most shallow. However, nowadays there is a preference for shorter travel distances among gamers due to faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Red Panda would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring if they prefer a more hearty depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
When it comes to the sound of the switches, the Outemu Red Panda is often described as having a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This gives it a unique combination of both depth and sharpness to its sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is known for producing deep, resonating thocks when typing. These thocks have a rich and satisfying quality to them, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Red Panda's sound. It is important to note that the sound produced by the switches is not solely determined by the switches themselves, but can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red Panda is described as having a mild typing experience. This means that it offers a more gentle feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Red Panda's qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is known for its sharp and crisp tactile bump. This sharpness provides a high feedback intensity, allowing users to distinctly feel the tactile bump with each keypress. Additionally, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring can also be described as having an accented tactile feel, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The switch's snappy and bouncy characteristics further enhance the typing experience, making it feel more lively. Lastly, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a stepped switch design, which means users may feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke.
Taking all available information into account, the Outemu Red Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring have their own distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Red Panda offers a lighter-medium amount of tactility and a unique sound profile that combines deep bass bottom-outs with clacky, higher-pitched top-outs. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a medium-high level of tactility with its sharp and crisp tactile bump, along with deep resonating thocks when typing. This gives users a different tactile experience and sound profile compared to the Red Panda. However, both switches offer satisfying typing experiences, with the Red Panda falling in the mild middle-ground and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring providing a more sharp and accentuated feel. It is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as keyboard board and keycaps when choosing between these switches to ensure the best possible typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force, a raindrop-like bottom-out sound, and a higher-pitched top-out sound, the Red Panda would be the ideal choice for you. It offers a light-medium amount of tactility and a thocky sound profile when typing. Additionally, the Red Panda provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be the perfect option. With its long, two-staged spring, this switch offers a sharp and snappy sound profile, along with an accented and sharp tactile bump. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring also provides a more responsive and bouncy typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Red Panda and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Consider your desired level of tactility, sound profile, and overall feel when choosing between these two switches.
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