Aflion Panda vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that enthusiasts often compare and contrast are the Aflion Panda and the KTT Cabbage Tofu. The Panda, a tactile switch, is best known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and profound "thocky" sound profile. With its accented, invigorating, and resonant characteristics, it sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, impresses users with improved tactility and responsiveness. Its lengthened 22mm spring allows for a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu is often described as reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, with clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy attributes. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into the features of each switch, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the KTT Cabbage Tofu, particularly their polycarbonate top housings, are quite similar in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches use polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a clear housing and want to achieve similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics, both the Aflion Panda and the KTT Cabbage Tofu with their polycarbonate top housings would be great options.
On the other hand, the housing materials of the Panda and the Cabbage Tofu differ in their bottom housings. The Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, giving the switches a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Cabbage Tofu also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound. Therefore, both switches would provide a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, as the qualities of the nylon bottom housing are responsible for these aspects.
In conclusion, while the top housings of the Aflion Panda and the KTT Cabbage Tofu share the same material, polycarbonate, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, their bottom housings differ in materials. The nylon bottom housings of both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Ultimately, if you are seeking switches with similar sound profiles and typing experiences, both the Aflion Panda and the KTT Cabbage Tofu can provide these qualities, although they may differ slightly in the specific characteristics brought by their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range, providing a balanced feel for typists. In terms of bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams of force, whereas the Cabbage Tofu requires a lighter 53 grams. This means that the Panda offers a slightly heavier typing experience when fully pressing down the keys compared to the Cabbage Tofu.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cabbage Tofu, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for those who require a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Panda's slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent experience for users. Whether you opt for the Panda or the Cabbage Tofu, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and key press depth.
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 KTT Cabbage Tofu has an MSRP of $3.25 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cabbage Tofu for $2.75.
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 described as having a resonant sound profile. Typing on this switch will give you a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a clacky sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is also described as having a high-pitched sound. If you prefer a switch with a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu may be a suitable choice. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers an accented tactile sensation. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming but also not subtle. This means you can expect a medium amount of feedback from each keystroke. The Panda switch is also described as invigorating, offering a snappy and reactive feel with moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its creamy and polished feel. Typing on these switches provides a smooth and buttery experience, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The switches have reduced friction, allowing for smooth key travel. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is also mentioned to have a silky feel. This indicates an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Furthermore, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as snappy, making the typing experience feel more alive due to longer or dual-staged springs.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Panda switch is characterized by its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, providing an unparalleled typing experience for those who value hypertactility and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers improved tactility and responsiveness, accompanied by a creamy and polished typing feel. While the Panda switch focuses on a medium tactile experience with pronounced feedback, the Cabbage Tofu switch aims for a smooth and buttery sensation with enhanced smoothness and reduced friction. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, each with its own unique qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value hyper-tactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 60 grams and a resonant sound profile, typing on the Panda will provide you with a unique and immersive auditory experience. The Panda offers an invigorating feel, with pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer improved tactility, swift rebound after actuation, and a clacky sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, then the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams and a high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu offers a sharp and crisp typing experience. It has a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feel, enhancing the overall smoothness and responsiveness of your typing.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Panda and the KTT Cabbage Tofu depends on your preferences for tactile feedback, audio feedback, and typing experience. Consider whether you prioritize hyper-tactility and a resonant sound profile or improved tactility and a clacky sound profile when making your choice. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns with your personal preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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