Aflion Panda vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the TTC Gold Silver, a linear switch. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and distinct "thocky" sound profile, appealing to those who desire a satisfying key feel and audible feedback. On the other hand, the Gold Silver is known for its rapid responsiveness and smooth keystrokes, offering a precise and seamless typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and strengths, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the TTC Gold Silver share similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches with RGB lighting, giving them a visually appealing look. Overall, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a clear and distinct sound experience.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Aflion Panda and TTC Gold Silver provides a different sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches. Its softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing in enhancing the typing experience by providing a unique sound profile that is distinct from the top housing material. This showcases how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Panda and TTC Gold Silver differ in material, they each play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By combining different housing materials, manufacturers can tailor the sound and feel of their switches to meet the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, the housing materials of these switches are essential in delivering a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is clear that they have their differences. The Panda has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Silver's 45 grams, making the Panda the slightly heavier option. However, the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unavailable, so it is difficult to determine how it compares to the Panda's 60 grams. In terms of weight, the Panda may be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Gold Silver might be preferred by those who like a lighter feel for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Panda being on the longer end and the Gold Silver being on the shorter end. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Silver for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the Panda with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and responsiveness.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 best known for its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and sonorous auditory experience that is both immersive and satisfying. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound that is neutral in nature, making it suitable for a variety of settings and users. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Panda emphasizing a hyper-tactile sensation and full-bodied audio feedback, while the Gold Silver focuses on swift action and a smooth, fluid sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Panda switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium tactile experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel that immerses the user in the typing sensation. Conversely, the Gold Silver switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and gentle resistance. While the Panda switch emphasizes tactility and feedback, the Gold Silver switch prioritizes smoothness and minimal resistance, catering to users who prefer a sleek and gentle typing feel.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in providing a hyper-tactile experience with a resonant and thocky sound profile, while the Gold Silver focuses on rapid responsiveness and a polished, silky typing feel. Both switches have their unique strengths and cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and feel characteristics. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that offers a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep "thocky" sound profile, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force and invigorating feel, the Panda provides a unique typing experience that is both tactile and satisfying. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a smooth keystroke with a low-pitched sound profile, then the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is the way to go. With its lack of bottom out force and polished, silky feel, the Gold Silver offers a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity in every keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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