Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Luciola. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation, providing an unparalleled typing experience. With a deep thocky sound profile, this switch offers a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback that is sure to please those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, the Luciola switches from Gateron are truly eye-catching with their glow-in-the-dark feature. These switches offer a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with a unique hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. While the Panda falls into the categories of "Accented," "Invigorating," and "Resonant," the Luciola is described as "Snappy," "Clacky," "Chirpy," "Marbly," "Buttery," "High-pitched," and "Polished." Both switches have their own distinct qualities and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Panda Tactile

Gateron Luciola Linear

$5.20

$3.56 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Luciola, we can see that both switches have different materials for their top housing. The Panda utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Luciola features Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing. This blend is described as pointed and relatively high-pitched, but not overly sharp, resulting in a satisfying thin and clacky sound. While these materials differ, they both contribute to delivering a distinct sound profile when pressing down on the switches.

On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Panda and Luciola switches are the same, as both switches use nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing, adding a unique element to the overall typing experience. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housing, allowing for consistent sound characteristics during the bottom-out impact and typing sound.

It is important to note that while the bottom housing greatly affects the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, the top housing holds more sway over the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the Panda and Luciola differ in their top housing materials, the impact on the sound profile when letting go of a key may be more similar since the bottom housing remains the same. This suggests that the user may experience a comparable sound release regardless of the switch chosen, enhancing the overall typing experience in a similar manner.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is clear that both switches have a medium actuation force and bottom out force. The Aflion Panda requires a force of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Gateron Luciola requires 55 grams. This slight difference in actuation force may not be noticeable to most users. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen.

In terms of weight, the lighter option would be the Aflion Panda with its 50-gram actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola offers a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference. If a lighter and more effortless typing experience is desired, the Aflion Panda would be the ideal choice. However, if a stronger and more pronounced keystroke is preferred, the Gateron Luciola would be the suitable option. Regardless, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, ensuring a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users.

Travel distance

The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. These distances indicate that the Panda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Luciola. Both switches offer a traditional travel distance, with the Panda being on the slightly longer side and the Luciola on the slightly shorter side. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Luciola, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper key press may opt for the Panda with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is best known for its resonant and thocky sound profile. Typing on these switches delivers a clean, sharp, and deep thocky echo that creates an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a variety of sound profiles. It can be described as clacky, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound. Some users have also described it as chirpy, having a little squeak to them. Additionally, the Luciola switch can be marbly, which means it has a resonant and high-pitched sound similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. If you prefer a higher-pitched and crisp sound, the Luciola is a great option. However, please note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it's important to consider those as well.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It offers a medium-level of tactile feedback, making it suitable for those who appreciate a noticeable tactile sensation. The typing feel of the Panda switches is invigorating, providing a reactive and snappy feel, along with a moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a snappy typing feel, thanks to its super responsive nature. This is achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, which give the typing experience a more lively and tactile sensation. The Luciola switch can also be described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Its polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek and enjoyable typing experience.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer distinct characteristics in both sound and feel. The Panda switch stands out with its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, it offers an accented and invigorating typing sensation, with a medium-level of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Luciola switch offers a range of sound profiles, including clacky, chirpy, and marbly. Its typing feel is snappy and buttery, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. While they differ in certain aspects, both switches provide an enjoyable and high-quality typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force and a hyper-tactile sensation, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the way to go. This switch offers a sonorous audio feedback and a deep thocky sound profile, providing a unique typing experience that is invigorating and accented. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that glows in the dark and has a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is a great choice. It offers a medium heft, a hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken, and options for different sound signatures such as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Luciola switch depends on your preference for tactility and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Panda Tactile

$5.20

$3.56 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more