KTT Pine vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the KTT Pine and the Outemu Red Panda. The Pine, a linear switch, is renowned for its medium-heavy feel and buttery smooth typing experience. With its factory-lubed finish, it minimizes friction and ensures effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility. Typing on these switches provides a unique combination of a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While the Pine is described as "bassy," "buttery," "creamy," and "low-pitched," the Red Panda is categorized as "thocky" and "mild." Each switch offers different qualities that may suit individual preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and the Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which leads to a similar sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and resonant sound output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion. Therefore, both the Pine and the Red Panda will offer similar sound characteristics and visual appeal due to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Pine utilizes polycarbonate while the Red Panda utilizes nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. Being a stiffer plastic, polycarbonate enhances the sharpness and clarity of the bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda creates a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder bottom-out sound. Therefore, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable during key presses, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. The Pine, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, will provide a crisper and more resonant experience when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the Red Panda, with its nylon bottom housing, will offer a deeper and fuller typing sound. However, when releasing a key, the top housing material becomes more relevant. Since both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they will offer a similar sound profile when keys are released, with sharper and higher-pitched sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. In terms of actuation force, the Pine requires 45 grams of force while the Red Panda requires 50 grams. Both switches fall under the medium range, with the Pine being slightly lighter. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine requires 58 grams while the Red Panda requires 60 grams. Again, both switches are in the medium range, with the Pine being slightly lighter. Therefore, if the preferred force for typing is on the lighter side, the Pine switch would be a better option, while those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel may opt for the Red Panda. In either case, users can expect a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced and comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. The shorter travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda may be preferred by gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial feel, the KTT Pine switch with its longer travel distance would be a better option. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 KTT Pine linear switch offers a deep, bass-heavy tone during key presses, resulting in a rich and satisfying sound. The low-pitched nature of these switches adds to the mellow tone, creating a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch produces a thocky sound, which can be described as a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Pine switch being bassier and the Red Panda switch having a thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Pine linear switch provides a buttery and creamy typing experience. The smooth and fluid keystroke of these switches allows for a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The application of lubricant at the factory contributes to the smoothness, further enhancing the typing experience. Similarly, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, providing a gentle typing feel that can be approachable for most users. While the specific materials and lubrication may differ, both switches offer a smooth and comfortable typing experience for users.
Based on the available information, the KTT Pine linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Pine switch excels in providing a deep, bass-heavy sound and a buttery, creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a thocky sound and a mild typing experience. While they may differ in sound and feel, both switches are designed to provide an enjoyable typing experience. It's important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, newcomers to mechanical keyboards can expect satisfying results from either switch, depending on their desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, these medium-heavy switches offer a buttery smooth keystroke, minimizing friction for a seamless typing sensation. The Pine switches are also known for their bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Additionally, if you enjoy the feel of a creamy switch, the Pine switches offer a similar sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle typing experience with a light-medium amount of tactility, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a suitable option. These switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. When typing on the Red Panda switches, you can expect a bassier and clackier sound, reminiscent of raindrops hitting the ground. The mild feel of these switches makes them approachable to most users, striking a balance between pronounced characteristics and a safe middle-ground zone.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize smoothness and buttery keystrokes or a more gentle typing experience with a light touch. Additionally, think about the sound profile that appeals to you, whether it's the deeper and richer bass tones of the Pine switches or the thocky sound of the Red Panda switches. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and enhances your typing experience.
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