Aflion Panda vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, stand out as unique options for different preferences. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and "thocky" sound profile, appealing to those who value a responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black by Gateron offers a premium quality linear switch experience at a budget-friendly price point, catering to individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. While the Panda is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', and 'Resonant', the G Pro 3.0 Black is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Silky', and 'Subtle'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Aflion Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black uses a proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While the Panda's top housing is made of polycarbonate for a clear and resonant sound with RGB lighting benefits, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend offers a unique sound that is not overly sharp.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Aflion Panda features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound of the top housing. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black uses a POM bottom housing, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a different typing experience compared to the top housing material.
Although the Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing offers a clacky and high-pitched sound. Similarly, the Panda's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a more muted sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Black needs 70 grams, making it the heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Panda switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and firmer keystroke may find the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black to be more to their liking. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy force range, providing similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of switches, having the same measurement means you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and overall typing experience. Since both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect consistent feedback and tactile response regardless of which switch they choose. In this case, there is no difference in travel distance between the two switches, resulting in a comparable typing experience for users.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 switch offers a resonant and thocky sound profile that is clean, sharp, and immersive. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a clacky, medium-high pitch sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The auditory experience of each switch is unique, with the Panda focusing on a deep, thocky echo, while the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a more medium-high pitch that is bright and sharp. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is accented and invigorating, offering a medium tactile feel that is not overwhelming yet still provides pronounced feedback. In comparison, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimized resistance and gentle resistance for a light typing feel. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the Panda emphasizing a super responsive tactile force and the G Pro 3.0 Black delivering a balanced medium-heavy feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Panda excels in providing a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile, ideal for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied audio feedback experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its premium quality linear switch with a balanced medium-heavy feel and a clacky, bright sound profile. Whether you prefer the resonant thock of the Panda or the crispy clack of the G Pro 3.0 Black, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider the following factors. If you value hyper-tactility and a deep, "thocky" sound profile, the Aflion Panda would be a great choice for you. It provides an unparalleled tactile sensation and resonant sound experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantive typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is the way to go. It offers a creamy and silky typing experience, making each keystroke smooth and effortless. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize hypertactility and a resonant sound (Panda) or a substantive typing experience with a creamy feel and medium-high pitch sound (G Pro 3.0 Black). Choose the switch that best suits your preferences and typing style.
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