Outemu Red Panda vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, both the Outemu Red Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer their own unique benefits. The Red Panda provides a light-medium amount of tactility and produces a satisfying bassier bottom-out sound as well as a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Categorized as "Thocky" and "Mild," these switches offer a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, these switches provide an approachable tactility. They also feature a deep and thocky sound profile and are categorized as "Bouncy." However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on which switch suits you best.

By the numbers

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$3.40 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a relatively stiff plastic, to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes them ideal for users who plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows for illuminating effects. Aesthetically, the clear housing of these switches is more likely to be made of polycarbonate.

However, the switches diverge when it comes to their bottom housing. The Red Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring employs a polycarbonate bottom housing. As mentioned before, polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. While the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.

Considering the differences in their bottom housings, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a distinct typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharp and resonant sound. On the other hand, the similarity in their polycarbonate top housings ensures that both switches offer a clear and crisp sound profile, making them suitable for those who value a heightened auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Red Panda is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is somewhat lighter, with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force, providing a balance between requiring a distinct press while also allowing for smooth typing.

For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be the better choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are slightly lower. This lighter weight can be beneficial for individuals who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions without experiencing too much fatigue. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience, the Red Panda offers a slightly heavier push feel, making each keystroke feel more deliberate and providing a sense of tactile feedback.

Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles. Those who prioritize a lighter touch may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, while individuals seeking a slightly more forceful and responsive keystroke may prefer the Red Panda. Nonetheless, both switches offer a medium actuation force and a satisfying bottom out force, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there is a clear distinction. The Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring surpasses it with a travel distance of 4 mm. This discrepancy in travel distance can greatly impact the typing or gaming experience. Generally, a traditional travel distance falls around 4.0 mm, while a shallower 3.0 mm is deemed more modern. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances, as it allows for faster response times. Therefore, if quick and responsive keystrokes are desired, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda would be ideal. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Red Panda and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have distinct characteristics. The Red Panda produces a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, giving it a raindrop-like quality. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as deep and thocky, providing a satisfying and rich auditory experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Red Panda offers a mild typing experience, providing a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes the Red Panda approachable for most users, as its qualities fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation. Pressing down on the keys of this switch gives a lively and rebounding feel.

Considering the available information, the Red Panda and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provide different subjective qualities. The Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, a deep and thocky sound profile, and a bouncy feel. It is important to note that individuals may have varying preferences when it comes to these subjective qualities, so it is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one suits personal preferences better. However, if the desired qualities are similar, such as a thocky sound and a mild feel, then both switches may yield similar results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep thocky sound profile, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With its light-medium tactility, bassier bottom-out sound, and clackier top-out sound, typing on these switches will provide a satisfying experience. Additionally, the Red Panda offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, combined with a very approachable tactility and a deep thocky sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is highly recommended. These switches provide a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, giving you a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the Red Panda and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will depend on your personal preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more