Outemu Red Panda vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Outemu Red Panda and the Dareu Snow. The Red Panda is a tactile switch known for its light-medium amount of tactility, creating a unique typing experience with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound signature. Both switches offer their own advantages and cater to different preferences - the Red Panda for those who enjoy a tactile typing feel, and the Snow for those who prefer a smoother linear switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the Dareu Snow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. This material is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Snow utilizes POK material for its top housing, which offers exceptional smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. While both materials have their unique qualities, they both contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Red Panda and the Snow use nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is favored for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the differences in top housing material between the Red Panda and the Snow contribute to distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Red Panda and the Dareu Snow depends on the sound profile and typing experience that each individual prefers. While both switches share similarities in their nylon bottom housings, the differences in their top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Red Panda and POK for the Snow - result in unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a smoother, clacky typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them both medium weight switches. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience when using either switch. The actuation force is the amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions or gaming, both the Red Panda and the Snow would be suitable options. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may want to consider switches with heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a similar tactile feedback and key travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 and the Dareu Snow linear switch both fall under the descriptor of "thocky," offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when typing. The Red Panda has a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, while the Snow switch produces a deeper sound signature, thanks to its POK material top housing and stem. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience with a satisfying sound profile that can enhance the overall feel of your keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel, the Red Panda is described as providing a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is referred to as "bouncy," offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. While the Red Panda offers a gentle typing experience suitable for most users, the Snow switch provides a more dynamic and responsive feel that some users may prefer for its bouncier feedback.
Overall, both the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Red Panda provides a light-medium amount of tactility alongside a bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out sound, while the Snow switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material and bouncier typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can elevate your typing experience and add a touch of customization to your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a light-medium amount of tactility, a bassier bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound, then the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a deep sound signature and a unique use of POK material for the top housing and stem, then the Dareu Snow linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and overall typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences.
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