Aflion Panda vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer different experiences are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the TTC Flame Red, a linear switch. The Aflion Panda is best known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and deeply satisfying "thocky" sound profile. With its accented, invigorating, and resonant characteristics, this switch sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red stands out with its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prioritize a visually appealing, backlit and RGB keyboard. While typing on the Flame Reds, users can enjoy a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, thanks to its neutral, mild, and polished attributes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Nylon
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
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the TTC Flame Red differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Panda utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, while the Flame Red features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffness allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who value a precise and defined typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Flame Red offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. While the two materials may produce distinct sound profiles, both are suitable for switches with translucent housings that can be complemented by RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Panda and the Flame Red use nylon as their housing material. Nylon is a classic choice for switch housings due to its ability to create a deep and rich sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from this material in their bottom housings, providing an overall satisfying typing experience in terms of sound production.
It is important to note that when a switch has different materials for the top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material are divided. Pressing down on a switch will engage the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. While the Panda and the Flame Red may differ in their specific housing materials, their overall effect on typing experience shares similarities.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is clear that they both fall within the medium actuation force range. However, there are slight differences in their specific forces. The Panda requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Flame Red has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Panda has a force of 60 grams, whereas the Flame Red has a lower bottom out force of 54 grams, making it medium-light in comparison.
Considering weight, lighter switches like the Flame Red can be beneficial for those who prefer extended periods of typing or gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on fingers and allows for a more comfortable experience. On the other hand, some users may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For such individuals, the slightly heavier forces of the Panda switch might be more suitable.
In conclusion, while both switches exhibit similar medium actuation forces, the Panda switch is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, those seeking a slightly lighter switch with a medium-light feel may find the TTC Flame Red linear switch to be a suitable choice. However, if a more solid typing experience with slightly heavier forces is desired, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be a better option.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel. The tactile feedback provided by the Panda switch and the linear action offered by the Flame Red switch may differ, but in terms of the physical distance traveled, both switches are equal. Therefore, whether you opt for the Panda or the Flame Red, you can expect a consistent travel distance of 4 mm.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 is known for its resonant quality. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. The sound profile is clean and sharp, providing a satisfying audio feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a neutral sound profile. It offers a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist. The sound produced by the Flame Red switch is not as distinctive or resonant as the Panda, but it still offers a pleasant typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. This gives the user a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. Additionally, the Panda switch is invigorating, meaning it offers a snappy and reactive feel. The actuation force required is moderate to firm, further enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is described as mild in terms of feel. It offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The feel of the switch is in the safe middle-ground zone, not too light or too heavy. Additionally, the Flame Red switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, adding to the overall typing comfort.
Considering all available information, it is clear that the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda switch excels in providing a resonant sound profile and an invigorating typing sensation, perfect for those who value hyper-tactility and a full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch is more versatile, with a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes and a mild, polished feel that offers a pleasant and approachable typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Depending on your desired sound, feel, and visual aesthetics, you can choose either switch to achieve similar results in terms of overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, you'll want to consider your preferences and needs. If you value an unparalleled tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, then the Panda is the way to go. It offers a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize visual appeal and have a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Red is the ideal choice. Its dazzling light diffuser adds a unique visual element to your typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Panda delivers a resonant and immersive auditory experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. The Flame Red, on the other hand, offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate pitch. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, as well as for both home and work settings.
In terms of feel, the Panda provides an accented and invigorating typing experience. It offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy, delivering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. On the other hand, the Flame Red offers a more mild and polished typing experience. It provides a gentle touch and smooth key travel, thanks to its refined finish and reduced friction.
Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you prioritize hypersensitivity and a thocky sound or visual appeal and a weighty smoothness, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. It's important to try out different switches and consider these factors before making your final decision.
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