Aflion Panda vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction: When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Panda, famous for Aflion's take on the Holy Pandas, delivers an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation accompanied by a deep thocky sound profile. It is perfect for those who value hypertactility and desire a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the CJ showcases a unique representation of a linear switch, providing higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. With its chirpy and mild nature, the CJ presents a neutral and low-pitched thocky sound. Both switches have their own merits, offering enthusiasts a choice between a tactile experience with a resonant feel or a smooth and chirpy linear switch. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you decide on the best switch that caters to your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and Gateron CJ differ in their choice of housing materials, particularly in their top and bottom housings. The Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the CJ opts for a proprietary INK blend top housing. Both materials aim to produce a higher-pitched sound profile, but with slight variations. The polycarbonate in the Panda creates a sharper and crisper sound, giving it a more resonant quality. On the other hand, the INK blend in the CJ results in a slightly less sharp sound, described as clacky but still satisfying.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Panda features a nylon material while the CJ utilizes POM housing. The nylon in the Panda elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound, complementing the top housing's sharpness. Conversely, the POM housing in the CJ provides a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. This sound is relatively more muted compared to the nylon of the Panda, adding a contrasting element to the typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Aflion Panda and the Gateron CJ, the overall impact on the typing experience is split. The bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The properties of the nylon in the Panda contribute to a deeper and fuller sound upon pressing a key, while the POM in the CJ creates a pleasing and relatively muted sound. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. The polycarbonate in the Panda generates a clear and resonant sound, while the INK blend in the CJ produces a satisfying clacky sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to deliver an enjoyable typing experience by utilizing their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them medium in terms of weight. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the pressure exerted when pressing all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter switch will find both options suitable for extended typing periods or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and stronger push feel will also find satisfaction in both the Aflion Panda and the Gateron CJ due to their heavier forces. Overall, while there may be differences in switch characteristics beyond weight, users seeking similar actuation and bottom out forces will be pleased with either the Aflion Panda tactile switch or the Gateron CJ linear switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a tactile or linear switch for a keyboard. The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same 4 mm distance that the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Panda and CJ switches offer similar results. Regardless of whether you choose the Aflion Panda tactile switch or the Gateron CJ linear switch, you can expect to have a satisfying typing experience with the same level of travel distance.
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 Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 known for its resonant profile. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound that creates an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean, sharp, and has a deep thocky echo. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique chirpy sound with a little squeak. It has a moderate sound profile and a lower pitch compared to the Panda switch. While both switches have different sound profiles, they provide interesting and enjoyable auditory feedback. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda switch offers an accented tactile experience. It falls in the category of medium tactile switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. This makes it suitable for those who enjoy a tactile typing sensation without extreme feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a gentle and approachable feel, making it suitable for most users. The CJ switch stands in a safe middle-ground zone with its qualities, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for a wide range of users.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda switch is known for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound, providing a full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, the CJ switch presents a unique chirpy sound and an impossibly smooth push feel. While these switches differ in their characteristics, they both offer interesting and enjoyable experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. It's important to consider personal preferences and individual typing habits when choosing between the two. Both the Panda and CJ switches are well-regarded in their respective categories, providing satisfying options for both tactile and linear switch enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. The Panda's unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation combined with its deep thocky sound profile sets a new gold standard for those who prioritize hypertactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, then the Gateron CJ is the way to go. The CJ offers an impossibly smooth push feel paired with higher-pitched clacks, creating a distinctive typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Panda provides a resonant, clean, and sharp sound profile, while the CJ is described as chirpy, with a unique acoustic signature. In terms of feel, the Panda offers an accented, medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming nor subtle, while the CJ provides a mild and approachable typing experience. Consider your preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing experience when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preferences and priorities.
Mentioned in this article
