Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Ink Box Pink are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is renowned for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and deep, "thocky" sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback, making it ideal for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is a linear switch known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other mechanical switches. It offers a higher-pitched clack, giving it a unique sound profile. While these general descriptions provide insights into the two switches, it is essential to explore their specific features and characteristics in more detail to determine the best switch for your needs. So, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
The Aflion Panda and the Gateron Ink Box Pink have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound. Both materials are known for their transparency, making them compatible with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, they share a similar appearance due to their clear housings. However, the Panda's polycarbonate offers a stiffer plastic composition, resulting in a more resonant sound profile compared to the Ink Box Pink.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Panda utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing again delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound. Despite their differences, both materials contribute to the overall sound of the switch when pressed down. The nylon bottom housing of the Panda absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Meanwhile, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink maintains a thin and higher-pitched sound. In terms of typing experience, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound with the Panda's nylon bottom housing compared to the Ink Box Pink's more pointed and high-pitched sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Ink Box Pink differ, their overall impact on the switch's sound profile is noticeable during different stages of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent during the bottom-out sound and feel when the user presses down on the switch. The Panda's nylon bottom housing emphasizes a more impactful and rounder sound, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend delivers a higher-pitched and clacky sensation. Conversely, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when the user releases a key. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the Ink Box Pink's INK blend top housing maintains a pointed yet not overly sharp sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is clear that they both have the same force requirements. Both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning the same amount of pressure is needed to trigger a keystroke on either switch. Additionally, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that the same amount of force is required to fully press the keys. This makes them suitable for those who prefer a medium force typing experience. However, it is worth noting that weight is an important consideration for some individuals. If a lighter switch is desired for longer typing sessions or gaming, both the Aflion Panda and Gateron Ink Box Pink switches provide a similar result in terms of force requirements. Conversely, for those who prefer a heavier push feel, both switches also offer a satisfying typing experience with their medium force actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of weight and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Panda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink. The Panda falls into the traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the Ink Box Pink is on the shorter side with 3.6 mm. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Ink Box Pink a suitable option for them. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the Panda with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels comfortable for the individual user. Both switches offer their own unique experience, so it is important to choose based on your desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 Pink 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 Pink 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Panda is renowned for its resonant characteristics, delivering a higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean, sharp, and emits a deep thocky echo, providing a sonorous audio feedback that is highly satisfying for those who enjoy a full-bodied sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink produces a clacky sound when pressed, resulting in a sharp and snappy sound. It has a higher-pitched sound profile, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a keyboard switch with a richer and bassier sound, the Panda might be a better choice, while the Ink Box Pink offers a distinct clackiness.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda switch is often described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a pronounced feedback and invigorating typing sensation with a moderate to firm actuation force. The switch is snappy and reactive, resulting in a satisfying and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. The switch is polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel, which results in a sleek and refined typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Panda would be a better choice, while the Ink Box Pink offers a smoother and more polished typing feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Panda provides an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation, with a deep thocky sound profile that is resonant and offers a sonorous audio feedback. It offers an invigorating typing feel with pronounced feedback and a medium level of tactility. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink offers a smoother and lighter typing feel, with a clacky sound profile and a higher-pitched sound. It provides a silky smooth experience and a polished typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound by choosing switches with higher-pitched characteristics. Both switches offer unique experiences for keyboard enthusiasts, allowing them to tailor their typing experience according to their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force and accented, invigorating feel, it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter feel and a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is the better choice. With the same medium bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink offers silky smoothness and a polished finish, resulting in minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smoothness, as well as the specific sound profile you desire.
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