Aflion Panda vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Panda stands out for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, appealing to those who value a full-bodied audio feedback experience. On the other hand, the Daybreak switches from Durock provide a heftier typing experience with their solid 67g weight and quiet operation, making them ideal for settings where noise reduction is essential. The Panda is 'Accented', 'Invigorating', and 'Resonant', while the Daybreak is 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Durock Daybreak both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. Therefore, users can expect a similar audio and visual experience with both the Panda and the Daybreak switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Aflion Panda uses nylon while the Durock Daybreak also features nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality between the Panda and the Daybreak due to their shared nylon bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Aflion Panda and the Durock Daybreak ensures a well-balanced sound profile for users. The top housing's impact on the sound when releasing a key complements the bottom housing's influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. This balance of materials in the housing design of these switches contributes to a satisfying typing experience with a consistent and pleasant sound profile for users of both the Panda and the Daybreak keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it is evident that the Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Daybreak's unknown actuation force. However, the Daybreak has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams in contrast to the Panda's 60 grams. This means that the Daybreak requires a slightly heavier touch to fully press the keys, while the Panda offers a lighter initial press. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of force, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Daybreak slightly shorter in terms of travel distance compared to the Panda. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and experience of using the switches. In general, a shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying and pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming 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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 tactile switch offers a resonant and immersive experience with a higher-pitched and clean sound profile, accompanied by a deep thocky echo. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, making it a quieter option for environments where noise reduction is crucial. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound, with the Panda delivering a more resonant and sharp auditory experience, while the Daybreak offers a softer and more subtle sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming yet delivers a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the Panda focusing more on tactile feedback and the Daybreak emphasizing a polished and sleek typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on whether a more tactile or smooth typing experience is preferred.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in providing a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile, catering to those who prioritize tactile feedback and a resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Daybreak offers a quieter operation with a heavier actuation force and a polished, refined feel for a smoother typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who values a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep, "thocky" sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium typing experience with unparalleled tactility and a sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak linear switch with a bottom out force of 67 grams would be more suitable for you. Its heavy actuation force and muted, low-pitched sound profile make it a great option for workspaces where noise levels need to be minimized. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your preference for tactility and sound profile.
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