Aflion Panda vs. HMX Blue Topaz
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the HMX Blue Topaz switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the HMX Blue Topaz, a linear switch. The Panda is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, appealing to those who value a responsive typing experience with rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making keystrokes effortless, all while offering a visually appealing glittery housing and clacky sound signature. While these general descriptions can help guide your decision, diving deeper into the specifics of each switch will ultimately help you determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the HMX Blue Topaz both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. Both switches are likely to offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
However, the Panda and the Blue Topaz differ in their bottom housing materials. The Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall tactile feedback and sound produced when typing.
When comparing the two switches, the quality of the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key. The nylon bottom housing of both the Panda and the Blue Topaz influences the typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing material, which is polycarbonate for both switches, will primarily affect the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, while the housing materials may differ between the two switches, they both offer a unique typing experience with a combination of materials that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offer different levels of actuation and bottom out force. The Panda has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it easier to type on for extended periods of time. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter feel of the Blue Topaz for longer typing sessions, while others may like the heavier push of the Panda for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances for mechanical switches. The Panda offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who prefer a deeper press. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or users looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 Aflion Panda tactile switch offers a resonant and deeply satisfying "thocky" sound profile that provides users with a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch produces a clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a visual and auditory delight to the typing experience. While the Panda leans towards a deeper and more immersive sound, the Blue Topaz offers a sharper and more distinct audio feedback, catering to different preferences in keyboard sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda switch provides an invigorating and accented tactile sensation that is responsive, snappy, and offers a moderate to firm actuation force. This creates an immersive typing experience with a significant tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is described as easy-to-press, offering a lightweight feel and gentle resistance during key presses. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions and enhancing the overall typing experience with a low-impact feel.
Overall, while the Aflion Panda and HMX Blue Topaz switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for users. Whether you prioritize the deep "thocky" sound and hyper-tactile sensation of the Panda or prefer the smooth actuation and lightweight feel of the Blue Topaz, both switches are capable of delivering high-quality performance and tactile feedback to suit your individual preferences. With these switches, you can expect a premium typing experience that meets your specific needs and desires.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile typing experience with a deep thocky sound profile, opt for the Aflion Panda. The Panda provides a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and offers an accented and invigorating feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch may be more suitable. The Blue Topaz has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams and is easy-to-press, making typing effortless and comfortable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you value the tactile sensation and sound profile of the Panda or the smoothness and lightness of the Blue Topaz.
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