Aflion Panda vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and TTC Gold Red Pro offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Aflion Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it a top choice for those who value a strong tactile response and rich auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro excels in its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that suits various environments. While the Panda is characterized by its accentuated and invigorating feel, the Gold Red Pro boasts a polished and silky touch. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the TTC Gold Red Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Both switches will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
On the other hand, the Panda and the Gold Red Pro differ in their bottom housing materials. The Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Gold Red Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches will likely produce a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound.
When it comes to how the housing materials affect the overall feel and sound of the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Aflion Panda and TTC Gold Red Pro may have some differences in housing materials, they are likely to provide a similar typing experience with slight variations in sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Panda has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gold Red Pro. The Panda requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, while the Gold Red Pro only needs 43 grams. Additionally, the Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Panda provides a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro offers a lighter typing experience, which is advantageous for extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to individual preferences for typing sensation.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Panda being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress 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 Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 and deep "thocky" sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a neutral sound signature, with a harmonious sound that is neither too pronounced nor too muted. The Panda will give a higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Gold Red Pro's low-pitched and moderate sound, making them suitable for different auditory preferences.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium tactile experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and gentle resistance. The Panda leans towards a more tactile and immersive typing sensation, while the Gold Red Pro focuses on smoothness and approachability.
Overall, if you prefer a hyper-tactile and resonant switch with a deep sound profile and pronounced feedback, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you value versatility, ease of press, and a neutral sound profile with a smooth typing experience, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users in various settings. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize tactility and sound or smoothness and adaptability in your mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Panda may be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom out force of 60 grams offers a responsive typing experience with a unique audio feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize versatility and a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Gold Red Pro might be the better option. With no specified bottom out force, this switch caters to a wide range of users and settings, from gaming to office work. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer the accentuated tactility and resonant sound of the Panda or the smooth, polished feel and neutral sound of the Gold Red Pro. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment for the most satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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