Aflion Panda vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish mechanical keyboard switches, both tactile options offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, setting a new standard for those who prioritize tactile feedback and audio experience. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch, known for its custom molds and medium weight, offers a more neutral sound signature and an approachable price point, making it a solid default tactile option. While the Panda excels in accentuated tactility and resonant feedback, the EF Grayish switch provides a snappy response and a stepped experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
59g
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
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Panda and EverFree Grayish switches have nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing.
Both the Panda and EverFree Grayish switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in similar sound profiles and aesthetics. However, they differ in their bottom housings, with the Panda featuring a nylon bottom housing and the EverFree Grayish utilizing the same material. The split in housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing the key, creating a unique typing experience for each switch.
In summary, the Aflion Panda and Gateron EverFree Grayish switches offer different combinations of housing materials for a varied typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and aesthetic appeal, the Panda's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the EverFree Grayish's nylon bottom housing. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom housings of each switch contributes to the overall typing experience, influencing both the sound and feel of key presses.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams of force while the EverFree (EF) Grayish force is unknown. This means that the Panda switch offers a more consistent experience in terms of force required for both actuation and bottom out, which may be preferred by some users. The EverFree (EF) Grayish switch, on the other hand, may provide a slightly more varied typing experience due to the unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Panda offers a more traditional travel distance, while the EverFree Grayish provides a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the EverFree Grayish for faster response times, while those looking for a deeper key press may opt for the Panda. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference to determine which switch is the better fit.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 is renowned for its resonant and thocky profile, providing a deep and immersive auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a more neutral sound signature that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the Panda delivers a higher-pitched and sharp sound, the Grayish switch maintains a moderate and versatile sound profile that can adapt to different settings. Ultimately, your choice of board and keycaps will play a significant role in determining the final sound output of either switch.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda is characterized by its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium tactile experience that is not overpowering but still provides a satisfying amount of tactility. Conversely, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped and snappy feel, giving users a subtler tactile sensation with a more responsive feedback due to its dual-staged springs. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Panda focusing on a more pronounced and immersive tactile feel while the Grayish prioritizes a balanced and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches each bring their own strengths to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in delivering a resonant and thocky sound profile paired with an accented and invigorating tactile feedback, ideal for those seeking a hyper-tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Grayish switch offers a more neutral sound signature with a stepped and snappy feel, suitable for users looking for a versatile and responsive tactile switch at an accessible price point. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Panda if you prioritize an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile and medium bottom out force. This switch is perfect for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, go for the EverFree (EF) Grayish if you prefer a more neutral sound signature, medium weight, and an approachable price point. This switch offers a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various intents and purposes. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize hyper-tactility and sound profile (Panda) or a neutral feel at an accessible price point (EF Grayish).
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