Aflion Panda vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Master stand out as two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Panda, a tactile switch, is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize tactile feedback and pronounced audio feedback. On the other hand, the Master, a linear switch from Dareu, offers a medium weight feel with a classic clacky sound signature and remarkable smoothness during operation. Each switch has its own strengths and is categorized as uniquely accentuated for the Panda and polished for the Master. 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Master differ in terms of their top housing materials. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Master has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Panda's top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Master provides a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
Both switches share a similarity in their bottom housing materials. Both the Panda and the Master utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This shared material choice in the bottom housing of both switches allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, despite their differing top housing materials.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Dareu Master play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the Panda's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity and sharpness in sound, the Master's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches results in a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. The combination of these different housing materials allows for a variety of sound profiles and tactile experiences for users to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Panda has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams while the bottom out force of the Master switch is unknown. In terms of weight, the Panda may be considered slightly heavier overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Master switch, which has a lighter actuation force. The actuation force of both switches is relatively close, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Dareu Master linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Aflion Panda tactile switch. The difference of 0.6 mm might not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch may provide a quicker response and better suitability for gaming, while the Aflion Panda tactile switch with the longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying depth for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 offers a resonant and deep "thocky" sound profile, providing an immersive and full-bodied auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master presents a classic clacky sound signature, producing sharp and snappy tones when pressed. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the Panda for its rich and tactile sound or the Master for its crisp and bright clacky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium amount of tactility with a responsive and immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the Dareu Master is characterized as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel due to its refined finish. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Panda leaning towards a more pronounced feedback while the Master remains in a safe middle-ground zone.
Overall, the Aflion Panda and Dareu Master switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you prefer a resonant and hyper-tactile typing experience with a deep thocky sound, the Panda would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you lean towards a classic clacky sound with smooth key travel and a gentle typing feel, the Master switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Panda tactile switch or the Dareu Master linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile and thocky typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Panda would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and clacky linear switch with a medium weight and a classic sound profile, the Master switch from Dareu would suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most - whether it be the pronounced tactility and resonant sound of the Panda or the smoothness and clackiness of the Master.
Mentioned in this article
