Aflion Panda vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Orange, a linear switch. The Panda is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and "thocky" sound profile, making it a top choice for those who value intense tactility and a rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the Orange stands out for its lightweight feel and crisp, clacky feedback, perfect for enthusiasts seeking a responsive and lively typing experience. While the Panda offers a unique tactile experience, the Orange provides a distinct linear feel. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Jerrzi Orange are quite similar, as they both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. In terms of sound, the polycarbonate top housing contributes significantly to the overall sound profile of both the Panda and the Orange switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in the bottom housing material. The Aflion Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the similar sound qualities found in the Panda switch. This shared material choice for the bottom housing may result in comparable typing experiences between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Aflion Panda and the Jerrzi Orange provides a unique sound profile for each switch. While the top housing influences the sound upon key release, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Despite their differences, both switches offer a blend of sharp, crisp sound from the polycarbonate top housing and deep, full sound from the nylon bottom housing, making them both intriguing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jerrzi Orange linear switch with an actuation force of 37 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Panda is also heavier at 60 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Orange is unknown. This means that the Panda switch provides a more substantial typing experience overall compared to the Orange switch. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch would be the better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer different levels of force, catering to the individual preferences of users.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Panda offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Orange falls on the shallower side. Gamers might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Orange for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial key press may opt for the Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key 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 Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 switch offers a resonant and thocky auditory experience, characterized by a deep, clean, and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch provides a clacky and lively sound with a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. The Panda switch leans towards a richer and more immersive sound, while the Orange switch offers a more vibrant and energetic typing experience with its distinctive clacky sound.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile sensation, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still prominent. This switch offers a snappy and reactive feel, enhancing the typing experience with its immersive feedback. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Orange switch prioritizes comfort and effortless keystrokes, making it a great choice for long typing sessions or gaming.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, one can expect a significant contrast in both sound and feel. The Panda switch excels in providing a resonant and thocky sound profile paired with an accented and invigorating tactile feel, catering to users who value hyper-tactility and a full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, the Orange switch stands out with its clacky and vibrant sound, complemented by a feathery and easy-to-press feel that focuses on comfort and reduced finger strain. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the Panda or the Orange, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance within their respective categories.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep "thocky" sound profile, opt for the Panda switch. It provides a medium bottom out force and an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky linear switch with a lightweight feel and crisp feedback, the Orange switch is the way to go. It offers a lively and vibrant typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and audio feedback or prefer a light and responsive typing experience.
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