Outemu Red Panda vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular switches that have gained recognition are the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Silent Bluish White, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Red Panda is well-known for providing a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White offers a medium tactile feel that provides a satisfying level of resistance when pressed, ensuring a precise and comfortable typing experience. However, what sets the Silent Bluish White apart is its emphasis on silence, making it perfect for office or shared living space use. Now that we have explored these generalities, let's dive in a bit deeper to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Silent Bluish White switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. It allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more distinct auditory experience when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, especially when using RGB lighting.
In terms of the nylon bottom housing, both switches utilize this classic material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon makes it absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This creates a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper sound when pressing keys.
While the top and bottom housings are different, each housing material brings its unique qualities to the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the qualities of the top housing. Despite these differences, both switches offer similar results in terms of improving the sound profile and the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Red Panda has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Bluish White's 42 grams. Similarly, the Red Panda also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams versus the Silent Bluish White's 50 grams. This means that the Red Panda switch requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke and provides a more substantial typing experience when pressed all the way down. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, making it preferred by individuals who prefer a lighter feel for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the Red Panda switch is on the medium side in terms of force required, while the Silent Bluish White switch falls on the lighter end of the spectrum.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times. Therefore, if you prioritize a faster and more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Outemu Red Panda would be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance.
On the other hand, some individuals might find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a slighter deeper feel. In this case, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch, with its longer travel distance, would be a better fit. The extra 0.2 mm of travel distance might provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy a heartier keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a unique experience. Typing on these switches results in a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound, as well as a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This combination creates a distinct thocky sound, with a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed and released. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is designed to be as quiet as possible. It produces a muted sound, which is softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Bluish White switch minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an excellent choice for office or shared living space use. Overall, although their sound profiles differ, both switches offer pleasant and enjoyable typing experiences with unique auditory characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Red Panda switch provides a mild tactile experience. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, offering a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Red Panda switch is approachable to most users, providing a satisfying level of resistance and a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch offers a buttery and seamless keystroke experience. It has a smooth and fluid typing sensation, making every keystroke effortless and uniform. Additionally, the Silent Bluish White switch has a stepped feel, which means it has two stages in its tactile feedback. This mild tactile feedback, combined with a gentle resistance, results in a precise and comfortable typing experience. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, each with its own distinct qualities.
To summarize, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is best known for its thocky sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying tone with its raindrop-like bottom-out and clackier top-out sounds. It provides a mild tactile feel, falling within a safe and approachable zone for most users. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is designed to be silent, producing a muted sound that minimizes mechanical keyboard noise. It offers a buttery and seamless typing experience, with a stepped tactile feedback and gentle resistance. Whether you prefer a more distinctive and thocky sound with a mild tactile feel or a quieter and smoother typing experience with a stepped feedback, both switches provide enjoyable and unique qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and requirements for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a satisfying level of resistance when pressed, the Outemu Red Panda switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a light-medium amount of tactility and provide a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. They have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them medium in terms of force required to press down the keys.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, especially in an office or shared living space, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch would be the better option for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them lighter compared to the Red Panda. Despite their medium tactility, the Silent Bluish Whites are designed to be as quiet as possible. They produce a softer and quieter sound, thanks to their muted characteristics.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience. The Red Panda provides a mild tactile sensation, offering a gentle typing experience that most people would find approachable. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Red Panda and TTC Silent Bluish White switches depends on your preferences. If you prioritize a medium level of tactility and a raindrop-like sound, the Red Panda would be the way to go. If you value a quieter typing experience and a buttery feel, the Silent Bluish White switch would be the better option for you. Consider your desired level of force, sound, and feel to make an informed decision that aligns with your typing preferences.
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