Aflion Panda vs. TTC Bluish White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TTC Bluish White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer a tactile typing experience are the Aflion Panda and the TTC Bluish White. The Aflion Panda is widely known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation, providing a satisfying and invigorating typing experience. It also features a profoundly "thocky" sound profile, adding to the overall enjoyment of using this switch. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. It is characterized by its buttery and mild tactile feedback, along with a polished and low-pitched sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Choosing the best switch for you goes beyond these generalities, so let's dive in a bit deeper to help you make an informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the TTC Bluish White switches are both polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, which leads to a clearer and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches will provide similar results with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the material used differs between the two switches. The Panda's bottom housing is nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Bluish White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing the same deeper and fuller sound experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
In summary, both the Aflion Panda and the TTC Bluish White switches have polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. Their nylon bottom housing brings a deeper and fuller sound experience, thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Overall, these switches offer slightly different experiences due to their different bottom housing materials, but their polycarbonate top housing provides similar results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, it is evident that both switches offer a different typing experience. The Aflion Panda has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Bluish White's 42 grams. This means that a slightly stronger push is required to trigger a keystroke on the Panda switch. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Panda switch is also higher at 60 grams compared to the Bluish White's 50 grams. This indicates that pressing all the way down on the Panda switch will require slightly more force.
Considering weight as a factor, the Bluish White switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. This lighter force can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a more effortless and prolonged typing experience, especially for tasks such as office work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Panda switch offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, providing users with a more substantial and tactile typing feel. This can be preferred by individuals who appreciate a stronger push and seek a more pronounced typing experience.
Although the Panda and Bluish White switches exhibit differences in actuation and bottom out force, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium to light range. Therefore, while the Panda switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Bluish White switch, both switches will provide relatively similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the specific typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered a more traditional and deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a tactile feel when pressed down, but the Panda provides a slightly deeper travel experience compared to the Bluish White. It is worth noting that shorter travel distances, like that of the Bluish White, are gaining popularity, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Bluish White may be the better option for you. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feel, the Panda with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 is best known for its resonant sound profile. When typing on the Panda, users can expect a higher-pitched sound with a clean and sharp quality. This switch provides an immersive auditory experience with an echo-like "thocky" sound. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White switches are described as having a low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Panda is considered to be an invigorating and accented switch. It offers a pronounced tactile feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive typing feel. This creates an immersive typing sensation that appeals to those who value hypetactility. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White switches have various descriptors. They are described as buttery, which implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. They are also referred to as mild switches, which offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Bluish White switches are also described as stepped switches, meaning they have two stages of tactile feedback. Users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel in these switches. Lastly, they are also considered to have a subtle and polished feel. They have a gentle resistance, light typing feel, reduced friction, and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Aflion Panda and TTC Bluish White switches differ in their subjective qualities. The Panda offers a hyper-tactile sensation with a thocky sound profile, while the Bluish White switches provide a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound. While both switches have unique characteristics, it is worth mentioning that individual preferences play a crucial role in determining the perfect switch for each user. Depending on one's preference for tactility, sound, and typing feel, either switch may provide a satisfactory experience. It is recommended to try out both switches and consider factors such as keyboard board and keycap choices before making a final decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium level of resistance, making it suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback without it being overwhelming. The Panda offers an invigorating typing experience with its pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and reactive feel. In terms of sound, it is described as resonant, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a lighter and more effortless typing feel. The Bluish White switch features a stepped design, providing a mild tactile sensation with pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, it has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and TTC Bluish White switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound profile, and key travel experience. If you prefer a more pronounced and immersive tactile sensation with a medium bottom out force, along with a resonant sound profile, the Panda switch is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more effortless typing feel, with a mild tactile sensation and a low-pitched sound profile, the Bluish White switch would be a suitable choice. Consider these factors in order to make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences.
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