Aflion Panda vs. Kailh Berry
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Berry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Berry are two popular options to consider. The Panda is renowned for its unparalleled tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. With a hyper-tactile force and a full-bodied audio feedback, it sets a new standard for those who prioritize hypertactility. On the other hand, the Berry offers a different experience with its linear switch design. Known for its hefty typing experience and springy feel, it provides a chalk-like texture when typing. The sound profile of the Berry is fairly deep, adding to its appeal. However, instead of just relying on generalities, let's dive in a bit deeper to help you decide on the best switch for your keyboard preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Kailh Berry both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to polycarbonate's stiffness, it produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for switches with RGB lighting. Similarly, both switches' nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
However, it is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided. When pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing's qualities will be more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the impact on sound will be predominantly from the top housing.
In summary, while the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Berry share similar housing materials, their impact on sound and feel may differ depending on the usage of the top and bottom housings. Both switches benefit from the sharpness and clarity of the polycarbonate top housing, as well as the deeper and fuller sound profile provided by the nylon bottom housing. Whether one switch is preferred over the other would likely depend on the individual's preference for the specific sound and feel produced by each housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a medium level of resistance to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Berry's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to determine how light or heavy the force may be. Moving onto the bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams of force to press all the way down, which is again medium in weight. On the other hand, the Berry has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier or medium-heavy in comparison.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience would find the Panda switch suitable for their needs. This lighter actuation force allows for extended typing periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel, with a stronger push force, the Berry switch would be a better choice due to its heavier bottom out force. It should be noted that if the actuation forces of the two switches are the same, users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger keystrokes, despite potential differences in the bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch have different travel distances. The Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered more standard, while 3.6 mm is slightly shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, opting for the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Berry switch would be a good choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and might prefer the 4 mm travel distance of the Panda switch for a more satisfying depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on an individual's personal preference and typing style.
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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Aflion Panda tactile switch is best known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who value hypertactility. In terms of sound, the Panda offers a profoundly "thocky" sound profile that is clean, sharp, and resonant. Typing on these switches provides an immersive auditory experience with a higher-pitched tone. The feel of the Panda is described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It offers an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel.
On the other hand, the Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its hefty typing experience. While the sound profile of the Berry is not as extensively described, it is noted to be fairly deep. The sound can be characterized as low-pitched, bassy, and mellow, providing a more relaxed auditory experience compared to the Panda. The feel of the Berry is described as springy, offering a noticeable chalk-like texture when typing on them. Some users prefer a textured or scratched switch, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and Kailh Berry switches offer different subjective qualities. The Panda provides a hyper-tactile sensation with an immersive and resonant sound profile, while the Berry offers a hefty typing experience with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver satisfying results, though in different ways. It is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen, as they can also influence the sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda switch offers an invigorating and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great option. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, the Berry switch provides a hefty typing experience. Moreover, if you enjoy a resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched sound, the Panda switch would be more suitable. Alternatively, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Berry switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preferences in terms of tactility, sound, and feel. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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