Outemu Red Panda vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the Outemu Red Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Brown. The Red Panda switch offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This switch, categorized as "Thocky" and "Mild," provides a unique typing experience that is both satisfying and pleasing to the ear. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort with its medium-light actuation force. Typing on these switches offers a familiar and delightful auditory experience thanks to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. Both switches have their merits, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches are quite different. The Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Brown has a nylon top housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Although they both have top housings, the materials used give them distinct sound characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon as the housing material. This classic material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both the Red Panda and WS Brown benefit from this material in creating a unique sound experience. While the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, the split of qualities between the top and bottom housings provides a varied sound profile during key presses.
When it comes to key presses, the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles. In the case of the Red Panda and WS Brown, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a key. As a result, the materials used in each housing will generate distinct auditory and tactile experiences. Despite the different materials used, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on the preferences and priorities of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Red Panda is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both falling in the medium range. On the other hand, the WS Brown's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Red Panda.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Brown may be the preferable choice, as its lower bottom out force allows for longer typing periods without causing as much fatigue. This makes it ideal for individuals who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the contrary, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel and desire a stronger typing experience, the Red Panda's heavier bottom out force would be the better option.
While the actuation force of the WS Brown is unknown, it is likely to provide a similar trigger for keystrokes as the Red Panda since they both fall within the medium tactile switch range. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a tactile switch for your keyboard. In this case, we will be comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. The Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm.
If you are looking for a more traditional feel, both of these switches offer distances within the range commonly seen. The Red Panda falls on the shorter end of the spectrum with its 3.3 mm travel distance, while the WS Brown provides a slightly longer 3.8 mm distance. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as they result in faster response times, making the Red Panda a favorable choice in that regard.
On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel when typing may find the WS Brown with its longer travel distance to be more satisfying. The 3.8 mm distance allows for a more pronounced key press, providing a sense of depth that some users appreciate. However, it is worth noting that individuals who prefer shorter travel distances may find the WS Brown to feel a bit more abrupt in comparison.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the Red Panda with its shorter travel distance may be the better option. However, if you value a deeper key press and a sense of solidity, the WS Brown's longer travel distance may be more suitable for you.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50.
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 unique auditory experience. Typing on these switches produces a distinct bassier bottom-out sound that resembles raindrops, creating a satisfying "thocky" sensation. Additionally, the top-out sound is clackier and higher-pitched, adding an element of sharpness. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you are aiming for a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, the Red Panda may be a better choice.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that the tactile feedback is not overly pronounced, offering a more gentle and approachable typing sensation. With its characteristics falling into a safe middle-ground zone, the Red Panda switch can be enjoyed by a wide range of users. Conversely, no information is given about the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, leaving it unknown whether it has a similar or different feel compared to the Red Panda. However, if you are seeking a switch with a more mild and gentle feel, the Red Panda would be a suitable option.
Taking into account the available information, the Outemu Red Panda and Wuque Studio WS Brown switches offer different subjective qualities. The Red Panda exhibits a thocky sound profile, with a deep bottom-out sound and clackier top-out sound. Its feel is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide user base. On the other hand, the sound and feel of the WS Brown switch are unknown. If you are aiming for a switch with a specific sound and feel, the Red Panda would be the recommended choice based on the information provided. Nevertheless, keep in mind that factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the WS Brown may be the better choice for you. With its medium-light actuation force, it provides a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it suitable for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. Additionally, the WS Brown offers a familiar and delightful auditory experience thanks to its nylon housing and POM stem combination. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Red Panda may be more suitable. It offers a light-medium amount of tactility, which provides a satisfying typing experience. The Red Panda also produces a distinctive bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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