Outemu Red Panda vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red Panda and the HMX SU offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Outemu Red Panda, known for its light-medium tactility, provides a satisfying feel with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a tactile response without overwhelming resistance, making it a great choice for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the HMX SU is characterized by its linear design, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem that produces a subtle, relatively deep sound profile. The smooth keystrokes of the SU make it ideal for users who prefer an uninterrupted typing experience, prioritizing speed and fluidity over tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique appeals, whether you're drawn to the Red Panda’s tactile sensations or the HMX SU’s seamless action. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and HMX SU switches, the most notable distinction lies in the top housing. The Red Panda utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's rigidity enhances resonance and clarity, making it particularly effective in amplifying the effects of RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing. This classic material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer nature, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. As a result, while both switches may deliver satisfying auditory feedback, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound characteristics—one offering brightness and clarity, and the other warmth and depth.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Outemu Red Panda and the HMX SU share the same nylon bottom housing. This commonality plays a crucial role in their overall auditory experience. The nylon in both switches contributes to a similar depth in sound, providing a duller and rounder auditory output that enhances the typing experience. Because the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, both models will exhibit a consistent, fuller sound profile upon key activation. Thus, while the top housings diverge in their effects, the shared bottom housing ensures a thread of similarity in tactile feedback and audio depth.
The contrasting top housings of the Red Panda and HMX SU demonstrate how variations in design materials can influence the overall sound profile of switches. Users who favor a more pronounced, assertive typing experience may gravitate towards the sharper sound of the Red Panda. In contrast, those seeking a muted, warmer auditory feedback might prefer the HMX SU. However, both switches complement each other by maintaining the shared qualities of the nylon bottom housing, resulting in a coherent sense of sound depth across their respective typing experiences. Ultimately, users can achieve similar bottom-out sensations while appreciating the unique auditory signatures created by the differing top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX SU features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. This difference in weight could significantly impact user experience; those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the HMX SU, while users seeking a more substantial and tactile feel might favor the Red Panda. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purpose well, the Red Panda provides a heavier action for users who appreciate a stronger push feel, whereas the SU caters to those who prioritize ease and comfort in prolonged usage.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we see a notable difference: the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SU linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Because of this, the Red Panda offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers who value quicker response times. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its longer travel distance, may be favored by users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper keypress. Ultimately, individuals looking for a more responsive typing experience might prefer the Red Panda, while those who enjoy a more substantial key travel may opt for the HMX SU.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 switch produces a unique auditory experience characterized by a lighter, bassier bottom-out sound that resembles raindrops, coupled with a higher-pitched clack at top-out. This duality offers a satisfying acoustic feedback that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a subtle and relatively deep sound profile, likely creating a more subdued auditory experience. While both options will contribute to a pleasant typing atmosphere, the Red Panda clearly stands out for those who appreciate a more dynamic sound signature, though specific sound quality can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of tactile feel, the Red Panda provides a light to medium level of tactility, making it approachable for users who favor gentle feedback without overwhelming sensations. These mild characteristics allow for a typing experience that feels balanced and accessible to most users. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch does not seem to have any detailed description regarding its tactile feedback, making it hard to draw direct comparisons. However, given that it's a linear switch, it's reasonable to expect a smooth action without tactile bump, thereby differing from the Red Panda's mildly tactile nature.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Red Panda and HMX SU linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Red Panda’s thocky sound profile and mild tactile feedback can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy expressive audio and gentle feedback, while the HMX SU's deeper, subtle sound may appeal to those seeking a more understated experience. Ultimately, potential users will find satisfaction in either switch depending on their sound and tactile preferences, making their choice hinge on what feels and sounds most appealing to them.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, your choice should align with your typing preferences and desired sound profile. If you enjoy a switch that delivers a mild tactile feedback with a deeper, thocky sound and a satisfying bottom-out experience, the Red Panda is an excellent option, especially if you appreciate a heavier actuation force of 60 grams for more resistance as you type. This makes it suitable for long typing sessions where you may want to feel more feedback from your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, smoother switch with a softer, more subtle sound profile and a responsive actuation at 50 grams, the HMX SU is the way to go. It offers a seamless typing experience favored by those who value speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. Ultimately, consider what aspects of sound, feel, and actuation force matter most to you to make the best choice for your keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
