Outemu Red Panda vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Red Panda and the SP-Star Duck. The Red Panda is known for its light-medium tactility, which provides a satisfying typing experience accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. It falls under the category of "Thocky" and "Mild." On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience, with a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile. Categorized as "Neutral," "Mild," "Buttery," and "Polished," these switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
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 SP-Star Duck, specifically their top and bottom housings, share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Red Panda employs nylon while the Duck utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the use of polycarbonate in the Duck's bottom housing maintains the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with the material. It complements the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a consistent and cohesive sound experience throughout.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings of the switches is important in understanding their overall performance. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will be felt. This affects the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a tactile response to the user. Conversely, the top housing primarily influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom parts determines the overall sound profile and tactile experience of using the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Red Panda is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Duck is unknown. This means that if a lighter actuation force is preferred, the Red Panda would be the better choice. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Red Panda being slightly heavier at 60 grams compared to the Duck's 58 grams. This indicates that for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Red Panda might be the preferable option. On the other hand, if weight is a crucial factor and a lighter switch is desired for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Duck could be the better choice. Overall, while the actuation forces differ, the similar medium bottom out forces of both switches ensure that users can achieve comparable results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have different travel distances, with the Red Panda being shorter than the Duck. The Red Panda's travel distance of 3.3 mm falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Duck's travel distance of 4 mm is more traditional and provides a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. Some people may find the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate its responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired feel while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This gives it a thocky sound profile, which is characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a clean and crispy sound profile described as neutral. This means it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using the switch at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the Red Panda and Duck switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making their sound and feel approachable to most users. Additionally, the Duck switch is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This implies a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Duck switch is also described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This could be due to the materials used or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a light-medium amount of tactility, a thocky bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound. The SP-Star Duck tactile switch, on the other hand, provides a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. Both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Duck switch adds extra qualities such as a buttery and polished feel, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience and a sleek typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, it's important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a slightly heavier tactile switch with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a great choice. With a bottom-out force of 60 grams and a light-medium amount of tactility, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile feel and a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is perfect. With a bottom-out force of 58 grams and a gentle tactility, these switches provide a comfortable typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Red Panda has a more pronounced sound profile, while the Duck has a more neutral sound. Additionally, the Duck switch is described as buttery and polished, ensuring smooth and effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you're looking for.
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