Aflion Panda vs. Dareu Aqua
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Aqua switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. Two popular switches that stand out among enthusiasts are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Aqua, a linear switch. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, appealing to those who prioritize tactile feedback and a satisfying audio experience. On the other hand, the Aqua features a super light 37g actuation force and a chirpy, clacky sound signature, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch while typing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences; 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Dareu Aqua both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing. As a result, both the Panda and the Aqua offer similar sound characteristics and visual effects with their polycarbonate top housings.
In contrast, the Panda and the Aqua differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Panda featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Aqua also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in the bottom housing material, both the Panda and the Aqua offer a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced when pressing down on the switches, thanks to the properties of nylon.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Aqua plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the Panda distinguishes itself with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Aqua provides a consistent typing experience with its nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound when pressing down on the switches. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall performance and feel of the keyboards they are installed in.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch, it is evident that the Panda has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aqua's lighter actuation force of 37 grams. The Panda also has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Aqua's bottom out force is unknown. The Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher forces, which some users may prefer for tactile feedback and accuracy. On the other hand, the Aqua's lighter actuation force may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience for extended periods. Both switches offer their unique benefits in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in typing feel and performance.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them both equal in this aspect. When pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same amount of key travel from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Panda or the Aqua, you can expect a consistent and familiar feel in terms of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the travel distance of both switches contributes to a comfortable typing experience, making them both great options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Panda has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Panda for $3.56.
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers a resonant thocky profile, creating a deep and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Aqua linear switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound signature, giving off a unique and distinctive acoustic profile. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Panda focusing on a deeper and more tactile sound, while the Aqua leans towards a lighter and more distinctive auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a resonant and thocky sound of the Panda or the chirpy and clacky sound of the Aqua.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium level of tactility with a responsive and immersive typing sensation. Meanwhile, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by an easy-to-press and feathery feel, providing a light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, with the Panda offering a more tactile and pronounced feedback, while the Aqua focuses on a light and low-impact typing feel. Users can choose between the invigorating tactility of the Panda or the easy-to-press nature of the Aqua, depending on their typing style and preference.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in providing a deep thocky sound profile with an invigorating and accented tactile feel, while the Aqua stands out for its chirpy and clacky sound signature paired with an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience. Whether opting for the resonant and hyper-tactile sensation of the Panda or the light and chirpy feel of the Aqua, users can expect high-quality performance tailored to their individual preferences. Overall, both switches deliver exceptional qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Panda may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a super light actuation force and a chirpy, clacky sound signature, the Aqua could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience. Just remember to choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
