Outemu Red Panda vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Yunhai represent two distinct approaches to typing experiences, each catering to different preferences and styles. The Red Panda, lauded for its light to medium tactility, delivers a satisfying typing experience characterized by a bassier, raindrop-like sound on bottom-out and a clackier, higher-pitched sound on top-out, making it a great option for those who enjoy a punchy yet subtle tactile feedback—often described as "thocky" and "mild". On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches boast an incredibly light actuation force and a unique deep, rounded sound profile, ideal for typists who favor a gentle, almost effortless keystroke, earning them the “feathery” distinction. The choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference: whether you seek the tactile satisfaction of the Red Panda or the smooth, gliding experience of the Yunhai. 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
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Yunhai switches exhibit noticeable differences in their top housing materials, each influencing the sound profile experienced while typing. The Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity. This characteristic results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound when keys are pressed or released, enhancing the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. The translucence of polycarbonate also makes it particularly suited for RGB lighting applications, allowing for a vibrant light diffusion that can enhance the overall aesthetics of a keyboard. In contrast, the Yunhai employs nylon for its top housing, a material that is softer and fundamentally alters the acoustic experience. The nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory profile that can create a rounder, less piercing typing experience.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, interestingly, both the Outemu Red Panda and the TTC Yunhai employ nylon. This consistency brings out a commonality in the tactile experience and auditory characteristics at the bottom-out point. The softness of the nylon material in the bottom housing contributes to a muted sound that pairs well with the softer typing feel. This shared use of nylon creates a foundation for both switches, leading to a consistent depth in sound that contrasts with the sharper notes produced by their differing top housings.
In the overall typing experience, the interaction between the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role in how sound is perceived and the feel of the switch. With the Red Panda's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, users can expect a sound profile that is a blend of crisp, high-pitched releases with a restrained, rounded bottom-out tone. Meanwhile, the Yunhai's nylon top and bottom housing provides a more cohesive depth of sound that emphasizes fullness at both the bottom-out and release phases of typing. Therefore, despite the distinct characteristics of the top housings, both switches achieve a balanced auditory profile through their shared nylon bottom housing, showcasing how housing materials can complement one another to create a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Red Panda has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance that can cater to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions where quick keystrokes are desired. Consequently, those who favor a lighter switch that allows for less finger strain will find the Yunhai more appealing, while users seeking a stronger push for tactile feedback will likely prefer the Red Panda. Overall, the Red Panda offers a firmer experience, while the Yunhai presents a lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, the Red Panda offers a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Yunhai measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive experience, the Red Panda would be the preferable choice due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker actuation. However, for those who favor a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Yunhai's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, if you value rapid response times, the Outemu Red Panda is the better option, while the TTC Yunhai caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 switches produce a distinctive auditory profile characterized by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound alongside a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This creates an engaging typing experience that can be described as thocky, providing a rich and satisfying auditory feedback, reminiscent of a deep "thud" or soft "knock." In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches offer a deeper and rounded sound, complementing the incredibly light actuation force they provide. However, the specific characteristics of the sound profile for the Yunhai switches are not thoroughly detailed, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Red Panda switches offer a mild tactile sensation, making them approachable for most typists. This mild tactility provides a balanced typing experience that nimbly navigates between being subtle and engaging, suitable for those who may be expanding their knowledge of mechanical switches. The TTC Yunhai switches, on the other hand, are recognized for their feathery feel, requiring minimal effort to actuate. This design minimizes finger fatigue, making them ideal for prolonged use, such as for tasks involving extensive typing or gaming. Thus, while the Red Panda offers a more tactile and dynamic feel, the Yunhai emphasizes lightness and ease of use.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Red Panda and TTC Yunhai switches provide unique qualities, they cater to different preferences among typists. The Red Panda excels in delivering tactile feedback along with an interesting sound profile, while the Yunhai focuses on a lighter, effortless feel with a rounded sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to individual preference—whether one favors tactile feedback and a richer sound or a lighter pressing experience that reduces finger strain.
Conclusion
To conclude, your decision between the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a gentle tactile feedback and enjoy the satisfying sound of a thocky keyboard, the Red Panda may be the ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, these switches are well-suited for those who appreciate a balanced typing experience that provides enough resistance without being overly strenuous. This makes them great for both typing and gaming, where a slight tactile bump can enhance your tactile feedback and overall experience. Conversely, if you favor a light and effortless keystroke, the TTC Yunhai linear switch would likely be a better fit. With a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, these switches offer a feathery feel that minimizes finger fatigue, making them perfect for long typing sessions, gaming marathons, or any task where you need to maintain a light touch. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style: go for the Red Panda if you want a bit of tactility and sound, or choose the Yunhai if you prioritize a light and smooth keystroke experience.
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