Outemu Red Panda vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various switch types, each offering its unique advantages and auditory experiences. The Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch, provides a delightful combination of light to medium tactility that enhances typing feedback, complemented by its distinct sounds—a bassy, raindrop-like bottom-out and a crisper, higher-pitched top-out. This blend of feedback and acoustics contributes to its 'thocky' and 'mild' feel, making it a great choice for users who appreciate tactile feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the HMX Twilight, classified as a linear switch, boasts an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, which contributes to a smoother and slightly quieter experience while still embracing the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches. Ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a seamless keypress with minimal resistance, the 'bouncy' feel of the Twilight can enhance rapid keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the Red Panda and the Twilight comes down to personal preference for tactile feedback versus a smoother linear 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
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
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the HMX Twilight, significant differences emerge between the two switches. The Red Panda features a top housing made of polycarbonate, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity contributes to a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, making it ideal for users who seek a crisper keystroke feedback. Additionally, the translucence of polycarbonate enhances the RGB lighting effect, making it visually appealing in customizable keyboard setups. In contrast, the HMX Twilight employs a nylon top housing, whose softer composition yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, each switch's top housing significantly influences the typist's experience, with the Red Panda favoring clarity while the Twilight emphasizes warmth.
Looking at the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which shares the same classic characteristics. For both the Outemu Red Panda and the HMX Twilight, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar effect: providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound well, helping to create a muted but rich acoustic experience when keys are bottomed out. This consistency in material means that regardless of the different top housing, users can expect a robust and rounded sound profile in the low register for both switches when engaged. This shared quality in bottom housing ensures that the tactile feel remains pleasant across both models.
The interplay between the distinct top housing materials and the unified bottom housing material results in a unique experience for each switch. The Red Panda's polycarbonate top enhances clarity and resonance during the release of the key, while the nylon bottom accentuates the fullness of sound when pressed down. Conversely, the Twilight's nylon top softens the attack, allowing for a more rounded auditory experience that complements its nylon bottom. While they share similarities, the contrasting top housing materials ultimately define the switches' performance, benefitting users with specific preferences for sound profiles. In both cases, users can anticipate a deep, rich sound due to the nylon bottoms, but the overall auditory and tactile experience will diverge based on the structural characteristics of their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Red Panda features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Twilight has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions. This means that for those who prioritize ease of use and reduced fatigue, the Twilight would be the better choice. Conversely, users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience would likely prefer the heavier Red Panda switch. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter touch, the HMX Twilight excels with its lower forces, while the Outemu Red Panda offers a firmer typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Red Panda measuring 3.3 mm and the Twilight at 3.85 mm. This means that the Red Panda provides a shorter travel distance, which can enhance responsiveness and offer a quicker actuation – a feature often favored by gamers seeking rapid key presses. Conversely, the Twilight's longer travel distance allows for a more substantial feel, which may appeal to those who prefer a satisfying depth when typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Outemu Red Panda would be the better choice, while the HMX Twilight caters to those who enjoy a more deliberate keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch produces a unique auditory experience characterized by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound paired with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This combination creates a satisfying acoustic profile that many users describe as thocky, evoking a deep, rich sound reminiscent of soft knocks or thuds. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch features an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, which leads to a slightly quieter overall sound. Although it retains the signature clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches, it lacks the pronounced bass depth of the Red Panda, resulting in a more subdued acoustic experience during typing.
When it comes to feel, the Red Panda exhibits mild tactility, lending to a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. This mild feedback encourages a comfortable interaction without overwhelming the typist, striking a balanced middle ground in terms of tactile sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight provides a bouncier feel, delivering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This lively response gives the user a sense of rebound with each keypress, making it more dynamic and engaging when typing.
Overall, while both switches deliver enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Outemu Red Panda is ideal for those who appreciate a combination of gentle tactility and thocky sound, making it suitable for a more subdued acoustic environment. Conversely, the HMX Twilight serves those who prefer a bouncier feel and don't mind a quieter output. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can choose either switch to curate a satisfying mechanical typing experience, but the distinctions between their textures and noise profiles will significantly shape your overall interaction with your keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch really hinges on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you find you enjoy a bit of tactile feedback while typing and prefer a deeper, thocky sound profile, the Outemu Red Panda would be the better pick for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying resistance that many typists appreciate, combining a mild tactile sensation with a unique raindrop-like acoustic experience. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter and more bouncy typing feel, the HMX Twilight could be your ideal choice. With a bottom-out force of 50 grams and an extended travel distance, this switch offers a livening rebound effect, enhancing your typing speed and making it a great fit for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. In essence, assess whether you are more drawn to tactile feedback or a smooth, lighter experience to determine which switch will best suit your needs.
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