Aflion Panda vs. Kailh Box Royal
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Box Royal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique tactile experiences are the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Box Royal. The Panda, often praised for its Holy Pandas feature, is known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and profound "thocky" sound profile. With its accented, invigorating, and resonant categorization, it sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Box Royal is hailed as one of the most tactile switches available, offering a sharp, binary tactility. If you crave a nearly aggressive tactility, the Box Royals are the perfect switches for you, albeit with a relatively higher pitched sound profile. These general pointers highlight the distinct qualities of each switch. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Kailh Box Royal switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, providing a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Box Royal utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon material, which is known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively, creating a more resonant and satisfying typing experience. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the Panda and Box Royal may still have slight differences due to variations in design and construction factors.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings is essential to consider when comparing the two switches. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. As both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, they are likely to provide a similar deep and full sound profile during typing. However, the top housing material plays a crucial role in the sound when the key is released. The polycarbonate housing of the Panda contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the nylon housing of the Box Royal will result in a rounder and less focused sound when keys are released.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and Kailh Box Royal switches offer distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Panda creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the Box Royal elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound when typing. However, the top housing material affects the sound when keys are released, with the Panda's polycarbonate producing a clearer sound compared to the duller sound of the Box Royal's nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch, there are a few key differences. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, slightly heavier than the Box Royal's 45 grams. This means that a slightly stronger push is required to trigger a keystroke on the Panda switch. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box Royal takes the lead with 70 grams of force compared to the Panda's 60 grams. This indicates that the Box Royal provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a heavier press to fully engage the keys.
Weight can be an important consideration when choosing between these two switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Box Royal with its lower actuation force may be a better option. This would allow for longer typing sessions without causing as much fatigue. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more satisfying typing feel, the Panda with its slightly higher actuation force would be the choice to make.
In conclusion, while both switches fall within the medium range when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces, there are distinct differences between the Aflion Panda and Kailh Box Royal switches. The Panda is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, while the Box Royal requires a heavier press for bottoming out. Ultimately, the preference for a lighter or stronger push will determine which switch is the better fit for individual typing needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch have different travel distances. The Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Box Royal has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Box Royal the shorter of the two switches.
The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference. Gamers, for example, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal for faster response times. The shorter distance allows them to actuate the switch more quickly. However, for those who prefer a more satisfying and deep keystroke, the longer travel distance of the Panda may be more appealing.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch. It is important to consider your own preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches, as they can greatly impact your 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 Kailh Box Royal 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Panda and Kailh Box Royal switches offer different experiences. The Panda is known for its "thocky" sound profile, providing a deep and resonant audio feedback. This switch offers a clean and sharp sound, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Box Royal has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Panda and Box Royal also offer distinct experiences. The Panda is described as an accented switch, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It offers a noticeable tactile feedback without being excessively tactile or scratchy. The Panda switch is also described as invigorating, providing a snappy and reactive feel with a moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, the Box Royal is known for its sharp tactile bump, offering a high feedback intensity. Each keypress with the Box Royal switch provides a distinct and prominent tactile bump that can be felt with clarity.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and Kailh Box Royal switches offer contrasting subjective qualities. The Panda offers a hyper-tactile sensation with a "thocky" sound profile. It provides a medium level of tactility that is non-overwhelming and offers an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Box Royal offers a sharp, binary tactility with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. It provides a high feedback intensity and a distinct tactile bump with each keypress. Both switches are suitable for those who appreciate tactility, but the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium actuation force that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Panda offers an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Additionally, its resonant sound profile adds to the immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a nearly aggressive tactility, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is perfect for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it falls under the medium-heavy category. The Box Royal offers a sharp and crisp tactile bump that is prominently felt with each keypress. Its high-pitched sound profile produces a sharp and crisp sound, perfect for those who prefer a higher-pitched switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and Kailh Box Royal switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize hypertactility, a thocky sound profile, and an invigorating typing feel, the Panda is the better option. However, if you prefer a sharper, binary tactility with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal is the way to go. Consider these factors and choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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