Outemu Red Panda vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Red Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Red Panda is a tactile switch, offering a light to medium amount of tactility while producing a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is a linear switch that combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering, providing a delightful typing experience with its 22mm double-stage spring and satisfying bounce. This switch also offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts have come to adore, thanks to its material blend. Additionally, it is crafted to be lightweight, ensuring effortless and smooth keystrokes. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing choices, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 Yellow differ in terms of the materials used. The Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is also translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Similarly, both switches feature nylon as the material for their bottom housing. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Therefore, both the Red Panda and the WS Yellow will provide a similar experience in terms of the sound and feel during typing due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Red Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow hinges on the desired sound profile. The Red Panda, with its polycarbonate top housing, offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for users who prefer a higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the WS Yellow, with its nylon top housing, delivers a deeper and fuller sound, suited for those who prefer a rounder and fuller sound. The shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the deep and full sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS Yellow's actuation force is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Red Panda requires 60 grams of force, whereas the WS Yellow has a bottom out force of 53 grams. Both switches fall in the medium range, with the Red Panda having a slightly heavier bottom out force.
Considering weight is crucial for users with different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the WS Yellow, as it allows for extended periods of typing, making it suitable for work keyboards or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Red Panda, which requires a stronger push feel due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Despite the differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer similar results in terms of overall typing experience, making them suitable options for users with different preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within the range, with 4.0 mm being considered the most conventional and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this case, the Red Panda with its shorter travel distance would be the preferred option. On the other hand, some people may find short travel distances too abrupt and prefer a switch with a more substantial depth. For those individuals, the WS Yellow with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences for responsiveness or a more hearty depth.
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 Yellow 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 distinctive experience. Typing on these switches produces a light-medium amount of tactility and a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound. Additionally, the top-out sound is clackier and higher-pitched. This combination creates a unique auditory experience that can be described as thocky, with a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. The WS Yellow linear switch, on the other hand, does not have any specific sound description available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you are looking for a similar thocky sound, the WS Yellow might not provide the same results.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience with characteristics that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. This means that the switch provides a comfortable and approachable feel for most users. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch is described as creamy, which indicates a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation is achieved through the application of lubricant in the factory or specific materials used in the switch. Typing on a creamy switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly, as each keystroke melts into the switch with ease. The WS Yellow also falls under the mild descriptor, providing a gentle typing experience. Additionally, the WS Yellow is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, but the WS Yellow provides a creamier and more polished feel compared to the mild feel of the Red Panda.
Taking all the available information into account, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Red Panda offers a thocky sound with a light-medium amount of tactility, a bassier bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound. It provides a mild feel, which is comfortable and approachable for most users. On the other hand, the WS Yellow offers a creamy and polished feel with a delightful typing experience and a satisfying bounce due to its double-stage spring. Although the sound description for the WS Yellow is not available, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are seeking a deep and satisfying thocky sound with a mild feel, the Red Panda is a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a creamy and polished feel, the WS Yellow will provide a delightful typing experience. Remember that other factors such as your keyboard board and keycaps will also influence the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a light-medium amount of tactility, alongside a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is the way to go. Additionally, the WS Yellow offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore and ensures a smooth and fluid typing experience with its lightweight design. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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