Aflion Panda vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it's clear that each offers unique features catering to different preferences. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who value tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple stands out for its smooth and easy-to-press nature, along with a slightly bassier sound signature that adds a poppy undertone to each keystroke. Both switches offer their own set of benefits, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and typing style. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the TTC Flaming Purple are quite similar in terms of the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic qualities from the polycarbonate top housings of both the Panda and Flaming Purple switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Panda and Flaming Purple switches offers a point of contrast. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the characteristics of this material differ slightly between the two. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, the Panda and Flaming Purple switches may have subtle differences in the exact sound and feel produced by their nylon bottom housings, as this material can influence the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. While the Aflion Panda and TTC Flaming Purple switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the nuances of their respective nylon bottom housings may provide slightly different typing experiences. Users looking for a sharper and crisper sound profile may prefer the characteristics of polycarbonate, while those seeking a deeper and fuller sound profile may lean towards switches with nylon bottom housings. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch can determine the overall typing experience and satisfaction of the user.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it's evident that the Panda has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Flaming Purple. The Panda requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 60 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple needs only 42 grams to actuate and 47 grams to bottom out, categorizing it as a lighter switch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Panda for its heavier force requirements, while individuals looking for a lighter touch may opt for the Flaming Purple. Overall, the weight of the switch is an essential factor to consider based on personal preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options compared to the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Panda offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Flaming Purple. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Flaming Purple, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 is known for its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and immersive auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a bassier sound profile with a poppy undertone, adding an engaging flair to the typing experience. While the Panda delivers a sharper and clean sound, the Flaming Purple veers towards a richer and deeper tone. Both switches offer unique auditory characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Panda emphasizing a thocky echo and the Flaming Purple leaning towards a bassier spectrum.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers an invigorating and accented typing sensation, characterized by a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming yet provides pronounced feedback. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Flaming Purple's silky smooth typing experience enhances overall comfort and responsiveness, while the Panda's medium tactility provides a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in providing a hyper-tactile sensation with a thocky sound profile, while the Flaming Purple stands out with its bassier sound signature and feathery typing experience. Whether you prefer a deep and resonant auditory feedback or a light and effortless typing feel, both switches cater to different preferences and offer a high-quality typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the Aflion Panda and the TTC Flaming Purple will depend on your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value hyper-tactility, a full-bodied sound profile, and a medium tactile feedback, the Panda switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a lightweight and effortless typing experience with a touch of auditory flair, the Flaming Purple switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and the type of sound and feel you desire when making your decision between these two exceptional switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs.
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