Aflion Panda vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Durock Light Tactile 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 Durock Light Tactile. The Aflion Panda switch is renowned for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile. It offers a super responsive tactile force paired with a deep, full-bodied audio feedback, making it the go-to choice for those who highly value hypertactility. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile provides a refreshing contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. It offers a gentle tactility that feels angelic to type on and produces a pleasing jelly-like sound. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', the Panda switch offers a distinct experience, whereas the Light Tactile, classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', provides a more subtle and refined tactility. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Durock Light Tactile share similar housing materials, with both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for each switch. The translucency of polycarbonate is also advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better illumination. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Panda utilizes nylon, while the Light Tactile also incorporates nylon in its construction. This common choice of material in the bottom housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality when using either the Panda or the Light Tactile.
Furthermore, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches means that the qualities brought by each material are divided. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. This distinction allows for a more nuanced typing experience and provides users with the opportunity to customize and fine-tune their desired sound profile based on their preferences.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Panda and the Durock Light Tactile share similarities in their use of polycarbonate top housings, the difference lies in their respective nylon bottom housings. These differences contribute to variations in sound profiles, with the Panda potentially offering a crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while both switches provide a deep and full sound due to the nylon bottom housing. However, the overall experience and flexibility in sound customization are comparable, offering users a range of options to meet their specific preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Aflion Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Durock Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams, making the Panda slightly lighter in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. Both switches fall within the medium range when it comes to actuation force.
In terms of bottom out force, the Aflion Panda has a force of 60 grams, while the Durock Light Tactile has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, making it heavier in comparison. This means that the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering weight is important when choosing a switch, as it affects typing endurance and overall typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch might opt for the Aflion Panda, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience will find the Durock Light Tactile to be a suitable choice.
In summary, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Panda is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Light Tactile is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, one can choose the switch that suits their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from top to bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys need to be pressed. Whether you choose the Aflion Panda or the Durock Light Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 mechanical keyboard switch is well-known for its resonant and thocky sound profile. Typing on these switches will provide a higher-pitched sound with a clean and sharp tone. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound. It has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda switch offers an accented and invigorating tactile experience. These switches have a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle, providing a prominent amount of feedback during typing. Alongside this, they have a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a more mild and polished feel. These switches offer a gentle typing experience and stand in a safe middle-ground zone when it comes to their characteristics. They have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking into consideration all the available information, it is clear that the Aflion Panda and Durock Light Tactile switches offer different subjective qualities. The Panda switch is best suited for those who value hypertactility and enjoy a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. It provides a resonant and thocky sound profile, as well as an invigorating and accented tactile feel. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock is a gentle and polished option, offering a more neutral sound and a mild typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. However, if you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, the Light Tactile switch could provide a comparable experience to the Panda switch but with a milder and more approachable touch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Panda and the Durock Light Tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value hyper-tactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, then the Aflion Panda is the switch for you. With its medium bottom out force and accented, invigorating feel, it provides a pronounced tactile sensation that is not overwhelming. Additionally, the Panda offers a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a gentler tactility and a more neutral sound profile, the Durock Light Tactile switch is a great choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and mild, polished feel, it offers a softer typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Light Tactile switch also has a jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique and pleasant sound when typing.
Overall, both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences. Therefore, consider your desired level of tactility and sound profile when making your decision. Whether you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation with a thocky sound or a gentler, angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound, you can find a suitable switch in either the Aflion Panda or the Durock Light Tactile. Take your time to experiment and find the switch that brings you the most satisfaction in your typing experience.
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