Aflion Panda vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options available that cater to different preferences and needs. Two popular switches to consider are the Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. The Aflion Panda switch is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and profound "thocky" sound profile. It offers an unparalleled level of responsiveness and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback that sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch, from their budget-friendly G Pro line-up, offers exceptional gaming experience with its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm compared to the standard 4mm, providing lightning-fast responsiveness and giving a competitive advantage. Additionally, it features vibrant RGB lighting and an exhilarating auditory element with its medium-high pitch. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver depends on your personal preferences and specific requirements for your typing or gaming needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics related to RGB lighting, users can expect similar results from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ in their material choice. The Panda incorporates nylon, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, the use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile. Thus, the typing experience on the Panda and G Pro 3.0 Silver will differ slightly in terms of sound, with the Panda offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that while the bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the differences between the Nylon bottom housing of the Panda and G Pro 3.0 Silver may be more noticeable during key release. However, in terms of the overall sound profile and aesthetic compatibility with RGB lighting, the similarity in their polycarbonate top housing ensures comparable results between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Panda has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's 45 grams. This means that a slightly stronger push is required to trigger a keystroke on the Panda switch. Additionally, the Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Panda switch requires a slightly heavier press in order to fully engage the key compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
These differences highlight contrasting preferences for different users. If someone prefers a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch, with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, would be the better choice. This lighter force allows for longer typing sessions without causing as much fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a stronger push would find the Panda switch more suitable. The Panda's slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a more tactile and robust typing experience.
It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for a variety of users. While the Panda switch is slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Silver, resulting in a different typing feel, they both offer similar results in terms of providing a satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance travelled regardless of which switch you are using. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience provided by both switches. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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. When typing on this switch, you can expect a clean and sharp sound with a higher-pitched resonance. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound. The key presses on these switches produce a deeper and richer sound resembling bass tones. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch also has a thocky sound, which gives a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed and released. It's essential to note that the sound profile of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda switch offers an accented and invigorating tactile experience. This means that it provides a medium level of tactility, offering a noticeable yet not overwhelming amount of feedback. The switch has a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy in feel. These terms imply a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The switch offers a effortless, gliding sensation that makes each keystroke feel effortless and smooth.
Taking into consideration the available information, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Panda switch is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation, providing a responsive and invigorating typing experience. It also offers a unique thocky sound profile that is full-bodied and satisfying. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch emphasizes lightning-fast responsiveness and exceptional gaming experience. Its sound profile is characterized by a bassy tone with a low pitch, enhancing the auditory element during gaming sessions. Both switches have their strengths, so choosing between them would depend on individual preferences regarding tactility and sound. If a user prefers a more tactile and resonant typing experience with a thocky sound, the Panda switch would be an excellent choice. If a user prioritizes gaming performance with a smooth and buttery feel and a bassy sound, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch would be a suitable option. It's important to consider personal preferences and requirements when selecting the right switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be an excellent choice. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda offers an invigorating typing experience without overwhelming tactility. On the other hand, if you're a gamer seeking lightning-fast responsiveness and exceptional value, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is a great option. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a shorter travel distance, these switches provide a competitive advantage and a creamy, buttery typing experience. Additionally, the Panda switch produces a resonant, clean, and sharp sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassy, low-pitched thocky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and specific needs, whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a rich sound or fast responsiveness and smooth keystrokes.
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