Outemu Red Panda vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Silent Red. The Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility, giving typists a satisfying feedback while typing. Alongside its distinctive "thocky" and "clackier" sounds, this switch creates a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch from TTC offers a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise. Perfect for office or shared living spaces, this switch has a muted sound profile that won't disturb those around you. It also boasts a consistent feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

TTC Silent Red Linear

$3.40 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Silent Red switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding a visually pleasing element to the switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the switches differ in their choice of material. The Red Panda incorporates nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Silent Red also employs nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches excel in creating a satisfying sound profile, albeit with a slightly different emphasis on the overall tone.

When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. Depressing the switch will predominantly reflect the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is influenced primarily by the top housing. The combination of these materials allows for a dynamic typing experience that caters to different preferences.

In conclusion, the Outemu Red Panda and TTC Silent Red switches may feature some similar housing materials, but they differ in their bottom housing choices. While the polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound profile with its sharp and crisp characteristics, the nylon bottom housing of both switches brings a more profound and absorbing element to the typing experience. Whether it's the distinct sound of the Red Panda or the rounded sound of the Silent Red, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience thanks to their thoughtfully chosen housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Red Panda requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Red requires slightly lighter force at 45 grams. This means that the Silent Red may feel slightly more responsive and easier to actuate compared to the Red Panda.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Red Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Red has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that when typing on the Silent Red switch, you will experience a slightly more substantial push feel compared to the Red Panda. It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, so if you prefer a stronger push feel, either of these options would be suitable.

Considering the weight of the switches, the Outemu Red Panda can be considered lighter due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces compared to the TTC Silent Red. This lighter weight may be preferable for those who value longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, providing a more comfortable experience over an extended period of time. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Silent Red may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Red Panda and TTC Silent Red switches have similar force ranges, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Red requires less force to actuate, providing a more responsive typing experience, while its slightly heavier bottom out force delivers a more substantial push feel. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a lighter overall experience with slightly lower actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Comparing these two switches, we can see that the Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance than the Red Panda. The Red Panda's travel distance of 3.3 mm falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Red's slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm provides a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose according to their individual preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a unique experience. It offers a light-medium amount of tactility and produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the top-out sound of these switches is clackier and higher-pitched. Overall, the Red Panda switch can be described as having a "thocky" sound profile, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released.

In contrast, the TTC Silent Red linear switch prioritizes a quiet typing experience. These switches are designed to minimize noise, making them an excellent choice for office or shared living spaces. They have a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Red Panda tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls into the middle-ground zone, providing a gentle, approachable feel that most users will find comfortable. The feel is consistent throughout the keystroke, with a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. However, no information is available regarding whether these switches are factory-lubed or if they have reduced friction.

Similarly, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is described as having a buttery and mild typing experience. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke, delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. These switches provide a uniform feel from top to bottom, ensuring maximum comfort. The description also mentions that these switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer unique subjective qualities. The Red Panda switch provides a thocky sound along with a mild typing experience. Meanwhile, the Silent Red switch prioritizes a quiet typing experience with a buttery and mild feel. If you are looking for similar results in terms of sound, the Silent Red switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more tactile and clackier sound, the Red Panda switch might be the better option. When choosing between these switches, it is important to consider your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.

Conclusion

To sum up, both the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch have their own unique qualities and benefits. If you're someone who values a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Red Panda is the switch for you. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound, these switches will provide a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience without the noise, the Silent Reds are the perfect choice. With a muted sound profile, these switches are ideal for office or shared living space use. They also provide a consistent, buttery typing feel from top to bottom, ensuring maximum comfort. If you appreciate a switch with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Silent Reds will not disappoint. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Silent Red will depend on whether you prefer a tactile switch with a more pronounced feel and sound, or a linear switch with a smoother and quieter typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more