Aflion Panda vs. Aflion Blush
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Aflion Blush switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and Aflion Blush are two notable contenders that offer unique experiences. The Panda is well-known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it the go-to choice for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Blush stands out as Aflion's best linear offering, thanks to its impressively smooth and snappy type feel, attributed to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, the Blush's long pole provides a poppy sound signature, adding to its appeal. While these general pointers shed light on what each switch brings to the table, 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Aflion Blush feature similar housing materials in their top housing, as both switches utilize polycarbonate. This material enhances the sound profile of the switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetically pleasing element to the switches.
In terms of their bottom housing, both the Panda and the Blush employ nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, users can expect a more muffled and gentle sound, fostering a comfortable and subdued typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Panda and the Blush differ in material, they each bring distinct qualities to the switches. The bottom housing, made of nylon, significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Pressing down on the keys will elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to the absorbing nature of nylon. On the other hand, the top housing, constructed from polycarbonate, impacts the sound when releasing a key. As the top housing is responsible for the overall sound profile, the polycarbonate material ensures a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in the Panda and the Blush allows for an enhanced typing experience with both switches, enabling users to enjoy a blend of softer and more resonant sounds.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The Aflion Panda tactile switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating the force needed to press the key all the way down. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Aflion Blush linear switch is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 58 grams, showcasing a similar medium resistance when fully pressed.
Considering weight, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is slightly lighter in terms of its actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Blush linear switch. This lighter weight can be beneficial for individuals who prefer longer typing sessions or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it requires less effort and fatigue to activate the keys. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, opting for the Aflion Blush linear switch might be preferable, as it has a slightly heavier bottom out force.
In summary, while both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch exhibit a medium level of actuation force and bottom out force, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is slightly lighter in terms of these forces. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter typing or gaming experience may find the Aflion Panda tactile switch more suitable, while those desiring a stronger push feel may lean towards the Aflion Blush linear switch.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch have different travel distances. The Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the more traditional option. On the other hand, the Blush has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Blush may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster response times. It provides a more responsive feel when pressing down on the key. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when typing, the Panda with its longer travel distance would be the preferred choice. Overall, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush for $4.07.
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 is best known for its resonant characteristics. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean, sharp, and offers a distinct "thocky" echo, setting a new standard for those who appreciate a sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. These switches tend to have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers an accented tactile sensation. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility that falls between being overwhelming and subtle. The switch offers a medium tactile experience, making it suitable for those who desire pronounced feedback without it being too intense. Additionally, the Panda switch provides an invigorating feel, characterized by a snappy and reactive response. It offers a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation.
On the other hand, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These switches are known for providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. The application of lubricant in the factory or specific materials used contribute to the creamy sensation. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as each keystroke effortlessly melts into the next. The Blush switch offers exceptional smoothness, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This results in a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda switch provides a resonant, high-pitched sound profile along with an accented, invigorating tactile feel. On the other hand, the Blush switch produces a low-pitched sound with a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, catering to individuals with different preferences. However, it is important to note that these qualities can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used. By considering all available information, newcomers can make an informed decision based on their desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep "thocky" sound, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda offers an invigorating typing experience, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The resonant sound profile of the Panda creates an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and snappy linear switch, the Aflion Blush would be the better option. With a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams, the Blush offers a creamy and buttery typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. The low-pitched sound profile of the Blush adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you desire hyper-tactility and a thocky sound (Panda) or a smooth and snappy linear feel (Blush).
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