Outemu Red Panda vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Outemu Red Panda switches offer a delightful blend of light to medium tactility with a distinctive sound profile; the satisfying raindrop-like bottom-out noise pairs with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out, making them particularly appealing for those who enjoy a thocky yet mild experience. These characteristics can enhance the typing experience for users who appreciate auditory feedback and tactile responses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches, known for their captivating design and smooth operation, utilize Hall Effect technology to deliver a bright and clacky sound signature. They provide an ultra-smooth keystroke that can greatly benefit gamers and fast typists looking for responsive action without the typical resistance found in many mechanical switches. Both options showcase unique attributes that cater to different preferences in usability and 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
30g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Outemu Red Panda and Wuque Studio WS Dash share a common construction choice in their top housing, utilizing polycarbonate. This material is praised for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other plastics. Both keyboards benefit from polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which leads to enhanced resonance when sound is generated during typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows RGB lighting effects to shine through vividly, providing an aesthetically pleasing visual experience for users who value customizable lighting. This similarity in housing material translates to comparable sound characteristics, giving both switches a distinct auditory quality that will appeal to enthusiasts seeking clarity in their keyboard experience.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Outemu Red Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Dash is made from nylon, a well-respected material in the keyboard community. Nylon differs significantly from polycarbonate in that it is a softer plastic, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its ability to absorb sound results in a more muffled and rounded auditory experience when compared to the sharper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top. Therefore, while both keyboards exhibit a crisp sound from the top housing, the bottom housing introduces a layer of depth to the overall sound profile, with the nylon material playing a pivotal role in shaping the bottom-out and keystroke feel.
The combined effect of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing in both the Outemu Red Panda and the WS Dash exemplifies how varied materials influence keyboard acoustics and user experience. As each material contributes unique auditory characteristics, the interplay between the stiffer, resonant top and the softer, sound-absorbing bottom creates a balanced typing experience that appeals to various preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a consistent auditory journey across both switches, with the Red Panda and WS Dash offering distinct yet harmonious sound profiles due to their thoughtfully selected materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their 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 medium resistance. In contrast, the WS Dash has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This indicates that the WS Dash is easier to press down and requires less force to actuate, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where a lighter touch is preferable. Furthermore, while the Red Panda's bottom out force is slightly higher, it also holds a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a stronger keypress experience. Overall, those who prioritize a lighter touch may opt for the WS Dash, whereas those seeking a more tactile response with increased resistance might choose the Red Panda.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, the Red Panda measures 3.3 mm, while the WS Dash has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Red Panda the shorter option, offering a more responsive experience, which is often preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the WS Dash's longer 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a fuller keystroke and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize quickness and responsiveness or a deeper, more engaging feel when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 stands out with its distinctive audio profile. It produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound that feels deep and satisfying, combined with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound that adds a lively character to each keystroke. This creates a dynamic contrast, making every keystroke feel engaging. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash Hall Effect switch offers a bright and clacky sound signature. This sound profile provides a more refined auditory experience, giving the keyboard a crispness that many typists enjoy. However, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound experience can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and the keycap material used, so personal preferences may vary in practice.
In terms of feel, the Red Panda delivers a mild tactile experience, offering a light-medium level of tactility that strikes a balance suitable for many typists. This gentler approach makes the switch approachable, preventing any overwhelming sensations during long typing sessions while still delivering feedback that typists appreciate. Conversely, specific details about the tactile feel of the WS Dash remain unspecified. However, given its seamless and smooth keystroke, it likely prioritizes ease of use and comfort, enhancing the typing experience without causing fatigue.
When considering both switches holistically, the Red Panda offers a unique combination of sound and mild tactility, creating an appealing experience for those who enjoy auditory feedback with a balanced typing feel. Meanwhile, the WS Dash emphasizes a smooth keystroke alongside its bright sound profile, which can cater to typists who prefer a refined auditory experience without pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct qualities that can lead to a satisfying typing experience, but they will appeal to different preferences based on sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, your preferences for sound and typing feel should drive your choice. If you enjoy a tactile response with a mild bump and a deeper, thocky sound, the Red Panda might be your best fit. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a thoughtfully balanced typing experience that leans towards a traditional tactile feel, perfect for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch with a brighter, clackier sound signature and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, the WS Dash would be more suited to your style. The medium-light actuation force makes it an excellent choice for gamers who favor rapid execution without sacrificing the enjoyment of a refined auditory experience. Overall, consider what aspect is more important to you—whether it's the tactile feel and sound signature of the Red Panda or the smoothness and unique characteristics of the WS Dash—to ensure your mechanical keyboard experience aligns with your personal preferences.
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