Outemu Red Panda vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda and the Jerrzi Violet mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The Red Panda, a tactile switch, is known for its light-medium tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, categorized as 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet, also a tactile switch, is distinguished by its smooth actuation and pleasingly poppy tactility, paired with a neutral sound signature, categorized as 'Stepped' and 'Neutral'. While the Red Panda may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and distinctive sound profile, the Violet may attract users seeking a smoother typing experience with a balanced sound. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Red Panda and Violet both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Red Panda and Violet also share nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite having similar housing materials in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, the Red Panda and Violet may differ in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The split in qualities between the bottom and top housing means that pressing down on the switch will emphasize the characteristics of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This differentiation in housing materials can result in subtle variations in typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, both the Red Panda and Violet benefit from the unique properties of polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharper sound profile and enhanced aesthetics with RGB lighting. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience. While the housing materials may be the same, the distribution of these materials within the switches may lead to differences in typing feel and sound, showcasing the importance of housing materials in key switch design.
Weight
The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jerrzi Violet's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red Panda requires 60 grams, while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Red Panda has a more consistent and tactile typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Jerrzi Violet may be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on weight preference, with the Red Panda being slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Red Panda offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Violet. Typically, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers looking for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 distinctive thocky experience with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provides a more neutral sound signature that is versatile and suitable for various typing environments. The sound profile of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's essential to consider these elements when choosing a switch based on sound preferences.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as providing a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of tactility and feedback. On the contrary, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offers a stepped feel with two distinct stages, providing a more subtle tactile experience compared to other switches. The feel of a switch can greatly impact the typing experience, so it's important to test out different switches to find the one that best suits your preferences and typing style.
Overall, both the Outemu Red Panda and Jerrzi Violet tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Red Panda provides a thocky sound and mild feel, the Violet switch offers a neutral sound and stepped feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing habits, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. It's essential to consider factors such as sound, feel, and compatibility with your keyboard setup when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable performance and can deliver a pleasant typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Red Panda tactile switch and the Violet tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility with a distinct bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Red Panda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile experience with smooth actuation and a balanced sound signature, the Violet switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how the typing experience feels and sounds to you, so take the time to test out both switches if possible before making your final choice.
Mentioned in this article
