Aflion Panda vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it becomes clear that they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Panda is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize tactility and a robust audio feedback experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing feel. So, while the Panda offers a more accented and resonant typing experience, the Crystal Pro provides a bouncy and polished feel. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Aflion Panda and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Panda differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing, known for its sharp and crisp sound.
Despite using different materials for their bottom housing, both the Panda and the V3 Crystal Pro offer distinct sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Panda absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the sharper and higher-pitched sound characteristic of polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing experience and feel of each switch, with the Panda offering a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the Crystal Pro.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing for a crisp and clear sound profile, the Panda's inclusion of nylon in the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound associated with polycarbonate. Whether one prefers a more rounded sound or a sharper sound will ultimately determine which switch is the better fit for their needs.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch have some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the Panda slightly heavier in terms of actuation force. Both switches have the same bottom out force, providing a consistent typing experience when fully pressed. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the V3 Crystal Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the Panda for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Panda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. In general, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of key depth when typing, while a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers a resonant and deep "thocky" sound, providing users with a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its bright and chirpy sound signature, adding a unique flair to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Panda focusing on a fuller, more resonant sound while the Crystal Pro delivers a lighter, more playful sound.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium level of tactility that is responsive and engaging. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is labeled as bouncy and polished, providing users with a smooth and lively typing experience. While the Panda focuses on a tactile sensation that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, the Crystal Pro offers a spring-like feedback and refined key travel for a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Panda excels in providing a deep and resonant sound profile paired with an invigorating tactile feel, ideal for those who value hyper-tactility and a full-bodied auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Crystal Pro stands out with its bright and chirpy sound signature and bouncy, polished feel, offering a smooth and lively typing experience. Both switches provide users with a high-quality typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you crave a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep "thocky" sound, the Panda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth typing experience with a bright and chirpy sound, the V3 Crystal Pro could be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value hypertactility and sonorous audio feedback or a silky smooth typing experience with a distinctive sound signature. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for a truly satisfying typing experience.
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