Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Red. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, setting a new standard for those who prioritize tactile feedback and audio experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and medium-heavy actuation, providing a seamless and consistent typing experience. While the Panda offers a lively and resonant typing experience, the Jupiter Red excels in its polished and creamy 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Red are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Panda and Jupiter Red differ slightly with their use of nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the impact of this material may vary slightly between the two switches.
Overall, the different housing materials in the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Red bring unique qualities to the typing experience. The Panda's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a balance of sharpness and depth in sound. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings may result in a more consistent sound profile throughout the typing process. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, both switches have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams. However, the Panda has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 45 grams. This means that the Panda will require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jupiter Red may be the better option, as it has a lighter actuation force. On the other hand, if someone is looking for a more substantial typing feel, they may prefer the Panda with its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, meaning that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed down. This means that users can expect a consistent amount of key travel when using either switch, resulting in similar tactile feedback and typing feel. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, making them equally suitable for users looking for a standard key travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 offers a resonant and deep thocky sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too loud or too soft. Both switches will provide satisfying sound feedback, but the Panda will deliver a more unique and resonant typing experience compared to the Jupiter Red.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is characterized as accented and invigorating, offering a medium tactile experience with a pronounced feedback and reactive feel. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and easy key travel. While the Panda switch will deliver a more tactile and invigorating typing sensation, the Jupiter Red switch will offer a smoother and softer keystroke experience overall.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is ideal for those who prioritize hyper-tactility and a thocky sound profile, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is a top choice for users seeking a seamless and consistent typing experience with a smooth and refined feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or prefer a smoother and softer typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values hyper-tactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a seamless, consistent typing experience with a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, then the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile, or a smooth and precise typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing style and what characteristics are most important to you when making your choice between the Aflion Panda and Gateron Jupiter Red switches.
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