Outemu Red Panda vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Red Panda and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Red Panda is known for its light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound reminiscent of raindrops. It falls under the category of 'Thocky' and is characterized as being mild in nature. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is designed for those who desire both a tactile response and a silenced experience, making it especially suitable for noise-sensitive environments. It provides a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Accented', 'Muted', and 'Polished', these switches cater to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper into their specific qualities in order to make an informed decision on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches have many similarities, as they both use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the illumination of RGB lighting, making it ideal for those who want to customize their keyboard's appearance. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches will provide similar results due to the shared use of polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon as the housing material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, attributed to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This softer plastic creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience. Therefore, the Red Panda and Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches will offer similar sound qualities due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing.
However, it should be noted that the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, while both switches share housing materials and offer similar sound profiles, the individual characteristics of the top and bottom housings will contribute to different aspects of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, some similarities and differences can be observed. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium range, but the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is slightly heavier. The Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Red Panda is 60 grams, whereas the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Red Panda with its 50-gram actuation force and 60-gram bottom out force would be a suitable choice. Its lighter weight allows for comfortable typing during long periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its medium-heavy weight. The 67-gram bottom out force provides a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience.
While the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unavailable, it is important to note that the actuation force is the force required to trigger a keystroke. Since the bottom out force is known to be heavier than the Red Panda, it can be inferred that the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will likely be higher as well to provide the desired typing experience.
In summary, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different weight options for users. The Red Panda is lighter with a medium actuation force and bottom out force, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is slightly heavier with a medium-heavy bottom out force. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, each switch provides a unique typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference in their distances. The Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silent T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Silent T1 falls within the more standard range of 4.0 mm, while the Red Panda is on the shallower side with 3.3 mm. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who desire faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Red Panda with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper key press that provides a more satisfying feel, the Silent T1 with its longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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
The sound characteristics of the Outemu Red Panda and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches differ significantly. The Red Panda switch produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This results in a more noticeable and distinct auditory experience, with a thocky quality that produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch is designed with noise-sensitive environments in mind, offering a muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Red Panda offers a mild typing experience. This means that it provides a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Red Panda switches fall within a safe, middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished. This means that it has a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Additionally, the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Red Panda produces a thocky and more noticeable sound, while providing a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a muted sound profile, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments, and has a stepped, accented, and polished feel. These switches cater to different preferences and requirements, allowing users to choose according to their desired sound profile and level of tactility.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom-out force and a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda switch would be a great choice. It offers a thocky sound that produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Additionally, its feel is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most.
On the other hand, if you desire a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a medium bump, along with a padded bottom-out feel and subdued audio feedback, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would be the ideal option. This switch is perfect for those who want both a tactile and silenced experience, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. It is described as producing a muted sound that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and requirements. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and cater to different needs. Whether you prioritize the sound, the feel, or the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard, you can make an informed choice based on the comparisons provided. In the end, it's important to select a switch that enhances your typing experience and meets your specific needs.
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