Aflion Panda vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Panda and the Bsun Hutt are two popular options that offer unique features and benefits. The Aflion Panda is known for its hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who value a responsive tactile force and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt features a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, offering a distinctive and enjoyable typing experience with a balanced sound profile. Both switches have their strengths and are categorized as accented, invigorating, and resonant, but the Hutt switch also adds snappy and sharp to its features. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and Bsun Hutt both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. With similar characteristics in their top housings, both the Panda and Hutt offer a consistent sound experience for users who prefer a crisp typing sound.
On the other hand, the Panda and Hutt differ in their choice of materials for the bottom housing. The Panda features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Hutt also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound. Despite the difference in their top housings, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing feel across both switches, catering to users who prefer a more subdued sound profile while typing.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is evident that the qualities of the top and bottom housings play a significant role in determining the sound and feel of a switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing is more prominent in dictating the sound when releasing a key. By strategically selecting materials for each part of the housing, both the Aflion Panda and Bsun Hutt are able to offer a balanced typing experience that caters to the preferences of different users.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, it is evident that the Panda has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Hutt's lighter 40 grams. Similarly, the Panda also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams in comparison to the Hutt's 49 grams. This means that the Panda offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch required both for actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, the Hutt provides a lighter touch for both processes, making it more ideal for those who prefer a gentler feel while typing. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Panda being better suited for users who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Hutt is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Panda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hutt. In general, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while a 3.0 mm distance is shallower. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Panda switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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, both the Aflion Panda and Bsun Hutt switches are described as resonant, offering a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, providing an enjoyable typing experience for users of both switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Panda is described as both accented and invigorating, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt is noted for being snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented, giving users a responsive and reactive feel with a firm actuation force. The Hutt switch also features a sharp tactile bump for a distinct tactile feedback with each keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Panda and Bsun Hutt switches offer unique and desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Panda excels in hyper-tactility and a deep thocky sound profile, the Hutt provides a distinctive typing experience with its medium-heavy spring and prominent tactile bump. Whether you prefer a more accentuated tactile feel or a snappier response, both switches will deliver an enjoyable and responsive typing experience for users. Ultimately, choosing between the Aflion Panda and Bsun Hutt switches will come down to personal preference in tactile feedback and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy spring with a prominent tactile bump and a balanced sound profile, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch would better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a more hypertactile typing experience with the Panda or a unique, enjoyable typing sensation with the Hutt. It all comes down to your personal preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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