Aflion Panda vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Panda is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those who value intense tactility and rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the Mahjong stands out with its unique green and white color scheme, offering a lively sound signature and effortless typing experience. While the Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', and 'Resonant', the Mahjong is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POK
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 Dareu Mahjong both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharp, crisp sound profile. However, the Panda's polycarbonate top housing is specifically highlighted for its ability to work well with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Mahjong's POK top housing is praised for its smoothness and durability, making it a top choice for switch manufacturing. Despite these slight differences, both switches benefit from the unique qualities of polycarbonate and POK materials, resulting in high-quality sound profiles and aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Panda and Mahjong utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deep and full sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a rounder and duller sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. While the bottom housing may not be as visually striking as the top housing, it plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall sound and feel of the switch, adding depth and richness to the typing experience.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Panda and Mahjong switches showcases a balance of aesthetics, functionality, and sound quality. While the specific properties of each material may vary slightly, both switches benefit from the unique characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon to create an enjoyable typing experience. Whether it's the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile of the Panda or the smooth, durable feel of the Mahjong, both switches offer a high level of performance and customization options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Panda is 60 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Panda is slightly heavier overall. Some users may prefer the Panda for its slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force, which can provide a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Mahjong's lighter actuation force may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience or longer gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance compared to the Panda. The Panda's 4 mm distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, while the Mahjong's 3.4 mm distance provides a shallower key press experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may favor the Mahjong with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more robust key press may lean towards the Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 tactile switch offers a resonant and immersive auditory experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and a deep, thocky echo. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of typing environments and preferences. Factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used can also impact the overall sound of the switches.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a bouncy and lively feel, offering a spring-like sensation with a more gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground zone. The Mahjong switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience due to factory lubing or high-quality materials.
Overall, the Aflion Panda and Dareu Mahjong switches offer distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Panda provides a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, while the Mahjong offers a unique green and white color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so it ultimately depends on the individual's preference for tactility and sound profile. If a user enjoys a resonant and hyper-tactile typing experience with a deep sound profile, they may prefer the Aflion Panda switch. On the other hand, if a user prefers a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, polished typing experience, the Dareu Mahjong switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider the following guidelines. You may want to choose the Panda if you value hyper-tactility, a deep thocky sound profile, and a medium bottom out force. This switch provides a super responsive tactile force and sonorous audio feedback, making it ideal for those who prioritize tactile sensation and sound quality in their typing experience. On the other hand, you may prefer the Mahjong if you appreciate a unique color scheme, a lively and poppy sound signature, and a switch with a moderate actuation force requirement. This switch offers a effortless typing experience and a moderate sound profile that suits a variety of typing environments and preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactile sensation, sound profile, and switch characteristics.
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