Outemu Red Panda vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Speed Silver. The Red Panda is a tactile switch, providing a light-medium amount of tactility while typing. It offers a unique sound profile with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is a linear switch that prioritizes speed and precision. It offers a light-medium level of resistance and has a pristine sound profile. These switches also have a reduced travel distance, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. Both switches have their own unique qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Speed Silver switches can be compared and contrasted in several ways. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be effectively displayed in the switch, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
In terms of their bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as the material of choice. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that some prefer for a more mellow typing experience.
However, where the two switches differ is in the specific qualities each housing material brings to the overall switch. With the Red Panda, the nylon bottom housing takes charge of the bottom-out sound and feel, shaping the tactile sensation and audible feedback when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing impacts the sound produced when releasing a key, making it more crucial for those who focus on the sound of their keystrokes.
Overall, the Red Panda and Speed Silver switches provide similar results in terms of housing materials. Both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, while nylon is employed for the bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between the two switches would ultimately come down to personal preference, with the Red Panda offering a more pronounced focus on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the Speed Silver providing a well-rounded auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium category, with the Red Panda being slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Speed Silver with its actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams provides a slightly lighter touch. This lighter weight can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a more substantial push feel with its actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams. This heavier force may appeal to individuals seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback and typing experience. Overall, while both switches provide a medium weight feel, the Red Panda leans towards the heavier side for those who prefer a stronger push, whereas the Speed Silver offers a slightly lighter touch for those who prefer a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that both switches have very similar distances. The Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Therefore, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, either switch would provide similar results. However, for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the Speed Silver may be the better option due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles. The Red Panda is known for its bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, resulting in a distinct and unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound characteristic that may be suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Red Panda and the Speed Silver are described as offering a mild typing experience. This indicates that they provide a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The qualities of these switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is also described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Red Panda and the Speed Silver offer different sound profiles, both switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience. The Red Panda has a distinctive thocky sound with a light-medium amount of tactility, while the Speed Silver has a more neutral sound profile. Both switches offer a gentle typing feel, but the Speed Silver's polished nature adds an extra level of smoothness to the key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light-medium amount of tactility and a satisfying sound profile, the Outemu Red Panda switch is a great choice. The Red Panda offers a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light, and a reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. Additionally, the Speed Silver offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Speed Silver has the added benefit of a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your specific preferences and priorities when it comes to typing feel and sound.
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