Outemu Red Panda vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for different preferences are the Outemu Red Panda and the KTT Strawberry. The Red Panda is best known for its light-medium amount of tactility, which provides a satisfying typing experience with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Categorized as "Thocky" and "Mild", these switches offer a pleasant balance between feedback and smoothness. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry stands out with its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With attractive pink and clear housings, these switches provide a frictionless and silky typing experience, earning them the categorization of "Low-pitched", "Frictionless", "Silky", "Buttery", and "Polished". Both switches have their own unique qualities, making them appealing options for different preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Strawberry share some similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing element to both switches.
However, the differences arise in the bottom housing material. The Red Panda features a nylon bottom housing, while the Strawberry utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry contributes to its overall sharper and crisper sound profile.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials affects the sound and feel in different ways. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Therefore, the nylon housing of the Red Panda will provide a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out. Conversely, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. Both switches, having polycarbonate top housings, will deliver a sharp and distinct sound when the key is released.
In summary, while both the Outemu Red Panda and KTT Strawberry feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile, their bottom housings differ. The nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry maintains the overall sharpness and clarity. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and feel can help keyboard enthusiasts choose the switch that aligns with their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium range. The Red Panda requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. On the other hand, the Strawberry has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Strawberry switch offers a slightly lighter initial push to trigger a keystroke, while the Red Panda provides a slightly heavier feel when pressing all the way down.
Considering the weight of a switch is important as it can significantly impact the typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as they allow for longer typing periods, making them ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, others may prefer a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push feel from their switches. For these individuals, opting for switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In terms of actuation forces, both switches are relatively similar, with the Strawberry offering a slightly lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the Red Panda is slightly heavier than the Strawberry. Despite these slight differences, both switches provide a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a balanced typing experience for users.
In summary, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch differ slightly, both switches fall within the medium range. The Red Panda offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, while the Strawberry has a slightly lighter actuation force. Ultimately, users can expect a balanced typing experience from either switch, catering to individual preferences for lighter or heavier keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is clear that the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Strawberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Red Panda falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Strawberry provides a more hearty depth with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 creates a unique and satisfying auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Overall, the Red Panda offers a thocky sound while the Strawberry provides a low-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild. This means it offers a gentle typing experience that most people will find approachable. Its qualities, including the sound and feel, stand in a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers several descriptors for its feel. It is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These qualities indicate that the Strawberry switch provides an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. The switch offers fluid travel and a sleek, refined finish.
In conclusion, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a unique sound with a bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out. Its feel is mild and approachable, offering a safe middle ground. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a low-pitched sound that is bass-heavy and mellow. It offers a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct qualities and offer different experiences. If you prefer a gentler, more approachable feel, the Red Panda is a great choice. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, the Strawberry switch would be a perfect fit. Keep in mind that the final experience is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound, as well as a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, then the Red Panda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, with an attractive pink and clear housing, then the Strawberry switch might be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a thocky sound with a deep, rich, and satisfying tone, the Red Panda is the option to consider. However, if you lean towards a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow sound, then the Strawberry is more likely to please your auditory preferences. In terms of feel, the Red Panda offers a mild typing experience with a safe, middle-ground zone, while the Strawberry provides a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, with exceptionally smooth and effortless key presses. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal taste in sound, feel, and aesthetics. Consider your priorities and select the switch that best aligns with your preferences for a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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