Outemu Red Panda vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch to the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Red Panda is known for its light-medium tactility and distinct bottom-out and top-out sounds, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S boasts a weightier keystroke and a balanced sound signature, making it suitable for those seeking a neutral and deeper acoustic 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the Gateron Type S switches exhibit some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. However, the Red Panda's top housing is made of polycarbonate, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type S's nylon top housing, which produces a duller and rounder sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Red Panda allows for RGB lighting effects, whereas the Type S's opaque nylon top housing does not offer this feature.
In terms of acoustic qualities, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and less resonant sound profile compared to harder plastics. However, the top housing of the Red Panda, being made of polycarbonate, imparts a distinct sharpness and clarity to the sound when keys are released, unlike the Type S's nylon top housing, which maintains a duller sound profile throughout the typing experience. This difference in top housing material significantly affects the overall sound profile and feel of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound and tactile feedback of a mechanical switch. While both the Outemu Red Panda and the Gateron Type S switches feature nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound, the Red Panda stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper and crisper sound experience, especially when keys are released. The Gateron Type S, on the other hand, maintains a consistent dull and round sound profile throughout typing. Depending on preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the sharper, resonant sound of the Red Panda or the consistent, deep sound of the Type S.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch reveals some key differences. The Red Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams, making the Red Panda slightly easier to trigger keystrokes with. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red Panda requires 60 grams compared to the Type S's 65 grams, making the Type S a bit heavier to press all the way down. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range of force required, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Type S has a slightly longer travel distance than the Red Panda. In terms of preference, gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Red Panda with the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Type S with the longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, providing users with options to suit their individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40, whereas the Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70.
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 unique thocky sound profile with bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out noises, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. In contrast, the Gateron Type S linear switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound, offering a more balanced and deeper acoustic experience that caters to a wider range of users. Ultimately, the sound preference between these switches may come down to personal taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Red Panda tactile switch provides a mild typing experience with a light-medium amount of tactility, making it approachable for most users who prefer a more gentle keypress. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is not described in the provided information. Without this information, we can only speculate that the Type S switch may offer a weightier keystroke due to its 65g bottom-out force, appealing to users who prefer a slightly heavier touch. However, the actual typing feel and tactile feedback of the Type S remains unclear based on the given data.
In conclusion, the Red Panda and Type S switches offer distinct sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. While the Red Panda excels in providing a thocky sound and mild tactility, the Type S aims for a more neutral sound signature with a potentially weightier keystroke. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to individual preference when choosing between the two. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience can also be influenced by factors such as keyboard construction, keycap material, and personal typing style.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bassier bottom-out sound, as well as a clackier top-out sound, then the Outemu Red Panda switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, a neutral sound profile, and a more subdued sound signature, then the Gateron Type S switch would be better suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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