Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Ink Box Black. Each switch offers its own unique features and advantages that may sway your decision. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is best known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch that stands out for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. Its sound signature is often described as reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. This switch offers a clacky, high-pitched sound accompanied by a silky and polished keystroke experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Ink Box Black, one notable difference is in their top housings. The Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both top housings contribute to a distinct sound, the Panda's polycarbonate offers a sharper profile, while the Ink Box Black's INK blend provides a satisfying and higher-pitched sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Panda employs a nylon material, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which shares similar characteristics with its top housing. This means that it also produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. Both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, with the Panda's nylon offering a deeper tone, while the Ink Box Black's INK blend adds a thin and higher-pitched element.
When pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing become more evident. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, determining the impact it has when a key is fully depressed. This means that the Panda's nylon bottom housing will create a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out, while the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing will provide a pointed and relatively high-pitched impact. On the other hand, the top housing's influence is more noticeable when releasing a key, affecting the sound that is produced when the key is let go. Therefore, while the two switches may have different top and bottom housing materials, they contribute to the sound profile in distinct ways depending on whether you are pressing down or letting go of a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Ink Box Black's 60 grams. This means that the Panda requires slightly less force to register a keystroke, providing a lighter and potentially faster typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams, while the Ink Box Black requires 70 grams. This indicates that the Panda has a slightly lighter bottom out force, resulting in a softer landing when pressing the keys fully.
In summary, the Aflion Panda has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black. This lighter feel may be preferred by those looking for a faster and less fatiguing typing experience. However, it's worth noting that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so users seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may find satisfaction with either option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is clear that the Panda has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Ink Box Black's 3.6 mm. The Panda falls within the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the Ink Box Black offers a slightly shallower travel distance. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may find the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black more appealing. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes may prefer the Panda with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of 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 Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 tactile switch is best known for its resonant sound profile, which produces a higher-pitched sound and provides an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, giving a satisfying feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound similar to a spray paint can being shaken. It has a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a clacky and sharp sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is a good option.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as an accented switch, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. It offers a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience. It reduces resistance when pressing and releasing keys, offering exceptional smoothness. It also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your preference, if you desire more tactile feedback and a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be a suitable choice. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great option.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and profound "thocky" sound profile. It offers a super responsive tactile force and a deep thocky echo, setting a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch excels in providing an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience. It has a clacky sound with a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a highly tactile and resonant switch, go for the Aflion Panda tactile switch. If you prioritize a smooth and polished typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a highly tactile typing experience with a deep, resonant sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda offers a satisfying level of tactility without being overwhelming. It provides pronounced feedback and a reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is worth considering. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, the Ink Box Black offers an incredibly smooth and polished typing feel. It minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing an exceptionally silky experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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