Aflion Panda vs. Jerrzi Coral
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Jerrzi Coral switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, to the Jerrzi Coral, a linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Panda is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it a top choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback and audio experience. On the other hand, the Coral stands out with its crisp typing feel and lower-pitched resonance, offering a balance of sophistication and performance. While the Panda is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', the Coral is labeled as 'Low-pitched' and 'Silky'. However, 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Jerrzi Coral both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows the lighting to shine through. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Panda has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Coral's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material likely impacts the overall typing experience and sound of the switches.
On the other hand, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material creates a deeper typing experience compared to switches with stiffer bottom housings. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is noticeable when typing on these switches. However, the top housing, which is polycarbonate for both the Panda and Coral, will have more influence on the sound when a key is released. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the difference in the top housing material may lead to variations in the sound profile and overall typing experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and the Jerrzi Coral share polycarbonate top housings that create similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness. However, the difference in bottom housing materials, with the Panda featuring nylon and the Coral utilizing polycarbonate, leads to variations in typing experience and sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Panda provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Coral offers a crisper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel based on the differences in housing materials.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch both have their own unique actuation and bottom out forces. The Panda requires 50 grams of actuation force and 60 grams of bottom out force, providing a medium level of resistance. In comparison, the Coral only needs 40 grams of actuation force, with the bottom out force being unknown. The Panda is on the heavier side compared to the Coral in terms of actuation force, making it a bit more resistant to keystrokes. However, since the bottom out force for the Coral is not specified, it is difficult to determine which switch is lighter in terms of overall feel. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Coral, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Panda.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Coral linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Panda offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Coral. A 4 mm travel distance is often considered to be more traditional, providing a satisfying depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, a 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, which may appeal to users looking for a quicker response time, especially in gaming scenarios. Both switches offer a respectable travel distance, providing a good tactile feel for users who value that aspect in their switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of experience desired.
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 Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda switch is known for its resonant and "thocky" sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience with a higher-pitched resonance. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Coral switch offers a lower-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a higher-pitched, immersive sound experience or a lower-pitched, mellower tone.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is described as offering an accented and invigorating typing sensation, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still pronounced. The Jerrzi Coral switch, on the other hand, is described as providing a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you enjoy a tactile switch with moderate to firm actuation force and a snappy feel, the Panda switch may be more suitable for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience, the Coral switch would be a better choice.
Overall, the Aflion Panda and Jerrzi Coral switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics for keyboard enthusiasts to consider. The Panda switch excels in hyper-tactility and a resonant, thocky sound profile, while the Coral switch boasts a crisp typing feel and a lower-pitched resonance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. It's important to note that individual results may vary depending on factors such as keyboard build and keycap selection.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Panda if you prioritize a medium bottom out force, enjoy a hyper-tactile sensation, and prefer a resonant typing sound profile. The Panda is ideal for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, opt for the Coral if you prefer switches with no bottom out force, appreciate a crisp typing feel with a lower-pitched resonance, and desire a silky smooth typing experience. The Coral excels in providing an exquisite balance of sophistication and performance, making each keystroke a delight. Ultimately, the choice between the Panda and the Coral will depend on your tactile preference, typing experience, and sound profile preference.
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