Aflion Panda vs. Bsun Dragon Fruit
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda and the BSUN Dragon Fruit mechanical keyboard switches, both known for their tactile feedback, there are some key differences to consider. The Panda from Aflion is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, setting a gold standard for those who prioritize tactile feedback and sonorous audio. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit switches from BSUN feature a long pole stem for a sharp bottom-out feel and substantial tactile feedback, offering a satisfying bump with a clacky sound signature. Both switches provide an invigorating typing experience, but the Panda leans towards a resonant and full-bodied feedback, while the Dragon Fruit offers a sharper and snappier tactile response. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Panda and the Bsun Dragon Fruit utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Panda and the Dragon Fruit differ in their bottom housing material, with the Panda using nylon and the Dragon Fruit also using nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the Aflion Panda and the Bsun Dragon Fruit may have different overall sound profiles due to the differences in their bottom housing materials. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings means that the Panda's bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the nylon bottom housing, while the Dragon Fruit's typing experience may also be affected by its nylon bottom housing. However, the impact of the top housing material will still be noticeable when pressing and releasing keys, as the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released.
In conclusion, while both the Aflion Panda and the Bsun Dragon Fruit share the characteristics of having polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of the overall typing experience. The Panda's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Dragon Fruit benefits from the same qualities. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch results in a unique sound profile and typing feel for enthusiasts to experience and appreciate.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Bsun Dragon Fruit's 45 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Panda at 60 grams and the Dragon Fruit at 65 grams, making the Dragon Fruit slightly heavier in this aspect. While the Panda offers a medium actuation and bottom out force, the Dragon Fruit falls into the medium-heavy category. Choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing experience, with the Panda being better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch and the Dragon Fruit for those seeking a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience due to their similar actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Dragon Fruit switch the shorter option when comparing the two. A 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for some users. Gamers looking for faster response times might prefer the Dragon Fruit with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Panda switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and comfort.
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 Bsun Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit for $3.83.
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 Panda switch offers a resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and immersive auditory experience with each keypress. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit switch is known for its clacky sound signature, giving off a lively and engaging typing experience. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Panda leaning towards a deeper tone while the Dragon Fruit offers a more vibrant clack.
In terms of feel, both the Panda and Dragon Fruit switches are described as accented and invigorating, offering a balanced level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still pronounced. They provide a satisfying bump at each press, creating a tactile typing sensation that is responsive and engaging. Additionally, the Dragon Fruit switch is noted for its sharp and snappy feel, adding an extra level of tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience.
Overall, while both the Aflion Panda and BSUN Dragon Fruit switches offer similar levels of tactile feedback and engagement, they differ slightly in sound profile with the Panda providing a deeper thock and the Dragon Fruit offering a more clacky sound. Whether you choose the Panda for its hyper-tactile sensation or the Dragon Fruit for its sharp and defined bottom-out, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience that caters to tactile enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile, the Panda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a sharp, definitive bottom-out and significant tactile feedback, the Dragon Fruit could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style for the most satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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