Aflion Panda vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TKC Kiwi 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 TKC Kiwi switches. The Panda is known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile. It offers a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches aim to enhance the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. These switches boast a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and come lightly factory lubed for a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. While both switches deliver a tactile experience, the Panda focuses on hypertactility and resonant feedback, while the Kiwi offers a more stepped and low-pitched experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide which switch is the perfect fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the TKC Kiwi have different materials for their top housings. The Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature. When typing on switches with UHWMPE housings, users can enjoy resonant clacks. Both materials enhance the sound experience, but with different characteristics.
As for the bottom housings, the Panda utilizes nylon while the Kiwi uses UHWMPE material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer composition, it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi provides a bright sound signature. Similar to the top housing, the UHWMPE material creates resonant clacks when typing, adding a unique auditory experience to the switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Panda and TKC Kiwi differ, their respective materials contribute distinct qualities to the overall switch performance. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer enhanced sound profiles due to the specific characteristics of their housing materials, providing users with a variety of options to tailor their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the Kiwi has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kiwi may be the better option as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, where a lighter switch can reduce fatigue. However, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the Panda with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of stability while typing.
It's worth mentioning that while the forces differ between the two switches, they both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. Therefore, regardless of the choice, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Panda and the TKC Kiwi will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience between the two switches. Both switches provide a satisfying and tactile sensation when pressed down, making them suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda switch is known for its resonant sound profile. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch has a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is described as an accented switch. It falls into the category of a "medium tactile" switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It offers an invigorating typing experience, with pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as a stepped switch. This means that it has two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It also falls into the category of an accented switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being too subtle or scratchy. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is polished, resulting in smooth and refined key travel due to reduced friction and factory lubing.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and TKC Kiwi switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda switch provides a resonant sound profile with a hyper-tactile sensation, accentuated by a deep thocky echo. It offers an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch has a low-pitched sound profile that delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound. It is a stepped switch with a medium to medium-strong bump, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. Depending on your preference for higher pitches or bass-heavy tones, as well as your desired level of tactility, either switch can provide an immersive typing experience. Both switches are also lightly factory lubed, enhancing their smoothness out of the box.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who values a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Panda offers a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and is known for its unparalleled tactility and thocky sound profile. You can expect a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. The feel of the Panda is described as invigorating, with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, then the TKC Kiwi tactile switch would be more suitable for you. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, the Kiwi offers a tactile experience that enhances your typing experience. The sound profile of the Kiwi is low-pitched, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. The Kiwi also offers a stepped feel, which means you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a more mild tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Panda and TKC Kiwi switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize hyper-tactility and a deep thocky sound, the Panda is the way to go. However, if you prefer a medium-strong bump and a snappy sound profile, the Kiwi is a great option. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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