Outemu Red Panda vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch with the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it's clear that both have their own unique features that cater to different preferences. The Red Panda is praised for its light-medium tactility and distinct bottom-out and top-out sounds, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing an exceptionally smooth and stable typing experience with minimal noise. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons why one might choose them over the other. 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
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Red Panda and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the light will shine through the clear housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent and vibrant sound experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Red Panda and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience. By incorporating nylon into the bottom housing, both switches offer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a softer sound profile.
While the Red Panda and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° share similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the distribution of these materials within the switches may result in slightly different typing experiences. The qualities of the bottom housing material will be more prominent during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a focus on sound quality and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Zero Degree lighter in this aspect. However, the Red Panda also has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, which is unavailable for the Zero Degree switch. This means that the Red Panda will provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the Zero Degree, which may be preferred by some users. Both switches offer a medium level of actuation force, but the Red Panda requires a slightly stronger push for bottoming out. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Red Panda's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Zero Degree's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer unique experiences due to their differences in travel distance, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on personal preference for responsiveness or depth when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is known for its light-medium tactility and unique sound profile featuring a bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch stands out for its smoothness, stability, and quiet typing experience thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. When it comes to sound, the Red Panda offers a thocky typing experience with a deep and satisfying sound, while the sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° is not specified, leaving room for exploration. In terms of feel, the Red Panda provides a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle ground zone suitable for most users, while the feel of the Zero Degree 0° is also unspecified. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but if a quiet typing experience is your priority, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may be the better choice, while the Outemu Red Panda offers a tactile typing experience with a distinctive sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should opt for the Red Panda if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch with no bottom out force and value silent typing, smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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