Outemu Red Panda vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch, and the HMX Swift, a linear switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Red Panda is renowned for its light-medium tactility, raindrop-like bottom-out sound, and clackier top-out sound, categorizing it as 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, attributed to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. The Swift is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. While the Red Panda offers a unique tactile experience, the Swift provides a smoother and lighter typing feel. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the HMX Swift, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Although the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, the difference lies in the top housing material. The Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound.
The choice of top housing material between polycarbonate and nylon significantly impacts the sound profile of the switches. With the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a clearer and more resonant sound due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. This results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile that is ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the Swift's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a deeper and fuller typing experience. The top housing material directly affects the sound when pressing down and letting go of a key.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the difference between their top housing materials showcases how material choice can impact the overall typing experience. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the split qualities of the top and bottom housings in a switch can make a noticeable difference in the sound and feel when typing. Choosing between switches with different top housing materials like polycarbonate and nylon allows users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences, whether they prefer a crisper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Red Panda has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Swift's lighter 42 grams. Similarly, the Red Panda also requires more force to bottom out at 60 grams compared to the Swift's 50 grams. This means that the Red Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel, while the Swift offers a lighter touch ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the Red Panda is better suited for those who prefer a heavier typing experience, while the Swift is a great option for those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 3.9 mm travel distance of the HMX Swift linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Red Panda may appeal to gamers looking for fast response times, while the longer travel distance of the Swift may offer a more substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 offers a thocky and satisfying deep sound while the HMX Swift linear switch provides a brighter, clacky sound with a deeper profile due to its nylon housings. Both switches have distinct sound profiles that can be further influenced by the user's choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Red Panda switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is easy-to-press with a feathery and bouncy sensation that offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and actuation forces that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, while the Outemu Red Panda and HMX Swift switches offer different sound and feel qualities, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Whether you prefer a thocky, tactile switch like the Red Panda or a clacky, linear switch like the Swift, both options provide unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch or the HMX Swift linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a medium tactile switch with a light-medium amount of tactility and a bassier bottom-out sound, then the Red Panda would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a silky smooth typing experience and a deeper sound profile, then the HMX Swift would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your personal typing preference and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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