Aflion Panda vs. Kailh Box Mute Jade

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Box Mute Jade. Both switches offer unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences. The Panda, known for its Holy Pandas, provides an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and a deep "thocky" sound profile. This switch is perfect for those who value a super-responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade is best for individuals who love the crunchy feel of clicky switches but prefer a more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter yet unmistakably clicky sound, this switch offers a unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

Aflion Panda Tactile

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

$5.20

$3.56 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Panda and the Kailh Box Mute Jade both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial if you plan to use RGB lighting. With both switches having the same top housing material, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, they differ. The Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar experience in terms of sound. Both switches benefit from the properties of nylon, enhancing the typing experience and delivering a satisfying sound.

When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material become apparent. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. As both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, you can expect a consistent experience in terms of how it feels and sounds when fully pressed. However, when it comes to the sound when letting go of a key, the top housing material plays a more significant role. Since both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they will have a similar impact on the sound produced upon key release.

In summary, the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Box Mute Jade share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, offering a sharper and crisper sound profile for a satisfying typing experience. Both switches also utilize nylon bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Overall, with slight variations in sound characteristics, both switches will provide comparable results due to their similar housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, there are notable differences worth considering. The Panda has a relatively lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Box Mute Jade's heavier actuation force of 75 grams. This means that the Panda requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it a more sensitive switch. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Panda is 60 grams, while the Box Mute Jade has a higher bottom out force of 82 grams. This indicates that the Box Mute Jade provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push to fully press down.

For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Panda would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer typing periods without causing excessive fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for individuals using the keyboard for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, for those who enjoy a more solid and forceful typing experience, the Box Mute Jade offers a heavier actuation and bottom out force, guaranteeing a satisfying tactile response.

While the forces required for actuation and bottoming out are different between these two switches, they still cater to different preferences. Individuals seeking a lighter touch will find the Panda appealing, while those desiring a more substantial feel can rely on the Box Mute Jade. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will determine the preferred switch choice for each individual. Consequently, for those aiming to achieve similar results, selecting switches with comparable actuation and bottom out forces will lead to a comparable typing experience.

Travel distance

Travel distance is an important factor to consider when choosing a tactile switch for your keyboard. In the case of the Panda and Box Mute Jade switches, there is a slight difference in their travel distances. The Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm.

The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times and quick key presses. In this case, the Box Mute Jade would be the more suitable option. However, for those who prioritize a more substantial key press and a deeper feel, the Panda's longer travel distance would be preferable.

It's worth noting that both of these switches fall within a reasonable range of travel distances, so whether you choose the Panda or the Box Mute Jade, you can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Ultimately, it is important to consider your own preferences and requirements when selecting a switch for your keyboard setup.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is best described as resonant. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, with a deep and satisfying "thocky" echo. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a crunchy sound profile. This is most commonly associated with clicky switches and is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Regarding feel, both the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches are described as accented. This means that they provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. They offer a medium level of tactile feedback, which adds a satisfying sensation to each keystroke. Additionally, the Aflion Panda switch is described as invigorating, offering a snappy and reactive feel that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is also described as stiff. This means that it requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. Users will need to apply more force when pressing the keys with these switches. Furthermore, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is characterized as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, contributing to a sleek typing experience.

Based on the available information, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile. It is an excellent choice for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides a more subdued sound profile with a crunchy feel that clicky switch enthusiasts will appreciate. Both switches offer an accented tactile feedback, but the Aflion Panda is described as invigorating while the Kailh Box Mute Jade is characterized as stiff and polished. If you're looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, the Aflion Panda would be a suitable choice due to its resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are someone who values a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda provides a pronounced feedback and invigorating typing sensation. The resonant sound profile adds to the immersive auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be the perfect switch for you. The heavy bottom out force of 82 grams, along with the crunchy sound signature, creates a satisfying and tactile typing experience. The Box Mute Jade also offers an accented feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch depends on your personal preference for tactility, sound profile, and individual typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Panda Tactile

$5.20

$3.56 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Box Mute Jade Clicky

$6.50 per 10

Learn more