Aflion Panda vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and Dareu Dream offer contrasting experiences for users to consider. The Panda boasts a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback and vibrant acoustics. On the other hand, the Dream provides a light and smooth linear typing experience at a more affordable price point, appealing to users looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. While these general descriptions can help you narrow down your choices, it's important to delve deeper into the specific features and characteristics of each switch to determine the best fit for your personal preferences. 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
4.00 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 Dareu Dream both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the difference in sound may come from other factors such as the design or construction of the keyboard itself, rather than just the housing material.
On the other hand, the Panda and the Dream use nylon for their bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and typing experience of the switches, providing a unique feel and audio feedback for each key press.
Overall, while both the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Dream feature similar housing materials, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials can result in varying sound profiles and typing experiences. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, especially with RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and richness to the sound. These differences ultimately contribute to the overall tactile and auditory experience of using these mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that the Panda requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dream's 40 grams. This means that the Panda will need a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when compared to the Dream, which has an unknown bottom out force. Since the Dream's bottom out force is unavailable, it is difficult to determine how it compares in terms of heaviness to the Panda. However, with a lighter actuation force, the Dream may feel lighter overall compared to the Panda. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dream, while those who enjoy a more tactile and substantial typing feel may opt for the Panda.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similar travel distance allows for consistent typing or gaming experiences for users who prefer either tactile or linear switches. Having the same travel distance can also result in similar typing speeds and feedback for users. Overall, the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Dream switches offer a consistent travel distance experience for users, providing a reliable and familiar feel when typing or gaming.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 profile that provides an immersive typing experience with a clean and sharp auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Panda excelling in a deeper, more resonant sound and the Dream providing a snappier and crisper auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium level of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still provides a satisfactory amount of tactility. This switch provides a snappy and reactive typing experience with moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive feel while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press and mild, offering a light actuation force that requires minimal effort to press. This switch provides a gentle typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making it comfortable and effortless to use.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in providing a hyper-tactile sensation with a resonant and deep thocky sound profile, while the Dream offers a light linear option with a clacky and sharp sound. Depending on your preferences for typing experience, both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different needs. Whether you prioritize hypertactility and a full-bodied audio feedback with the Panda or seek a light linear switch with an affordable price point with the Dream, you can achieve satisfying and efficient typing results with either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a highly tactile typing experience with a deep thocky sound profile, the Panda switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and affordable linear switch that offers easy key presses and a clacky sound, then the Dream switch would suit your needs better. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that resonates with you the most.
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