Aflion Panda vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer a tactile experience are the Aflion Panda and the KTT Matcha. The Panda, known for its unparalleled and hyper-tactile sensation, is celebrated for its "thocky" sound profile. Aflion's take on the Holy Pandas has set a new standard for those who value a hyperresponsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha offers a comfortable and snappy tactility that makes typing on it a pleasant experience. Its long pole stem ensures a distinctly clean bottom-out sound. While these general points give an overview of what each switch has to offer, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the KTT Matcha share similar housing materials, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. This material choice provides them with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be effectively utilized in both switches. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch that offers these qualities and the ability to incorporate vibrant lighting effects, both the Aflion Panda and the KTT Matcha would be suitable choices.
However, the key point of differentiation lies in their bottom housings. The Panda boasts a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall. In contrast, the Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its translucent top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the bottom housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. As a result, when pressing down on the switch, the Panda's bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a crisper and more defined sound.
Considering the differences in the bottom housings, it becomes evident that the Aflion Panda and the KTT Matcha offer distinct sound experiences. The Panda will provide a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its nylon bottom housing, while the Matcha will deliver a sharper and clearer sound due to its polycarbonate bottom housing. However, it is worth noting that the top housing, being polycarbonate in both switches, will have a similar impact on the sound when you release a key. If you prioritize a specific sound profile, such as a deeper or crisper sound, you can choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are clear differences to consider. The Panda has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Matcha's 40 grams, making the Matcha the lighter option. Similarly, the Panda requires a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Matcha only needs 45 grams, further establishing the Matcha as the lighter choice. The lighter weight of the Matcha may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing, especially for work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Panda's heavier actuation and bottom out forces offer a more substantial typing feel, which some individuals may prefer for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with lighter forces in the Matcha and heavier forces in the Panda catering to different user needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance as the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and familiar tactile feedback, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. Whether you choose the Panda or the Matcha, 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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
Compared to the KTT Matcha switch, the Aflion Panda switch offers a distinct sound profile. The Panda switch is known for its "thocky" sound, which creates a deep and resonant audio feedback. This sound profile provides a sonorous and immersive auditory experience, setting a new standard for those who appreciate a full-bodied sound when typing. On the other hand, the Matcha switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive. 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. However, based on the information provided, the Panda switch is more likely to deliver a resonant sound experience compared to the Matcha switch.
In terms of feel, the Panda switch offers an invigorating and accented tactile experience. The switch provides a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This combination creates an immersive typing sensation for the user. Additionally, the Panda switch is described as an accented switch, which means it strikes a balance between being tactile without being overwhelming or subtle. On the other hand, the Matcha switch is described as a stepped switch. Stepped switches have a two-stage tactile feedback, providing a more mild experience compared to the full bump of a hypertactile switch. The Matcha switch is also mentioned as snappy, indicating its super responsive nature. Furthermore, it is considered accented, just like the Panda switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Matcha switch is also described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Finally, it is described as subtle, offering a gentle resistance and a light typing feel, suitable for shared spaces. Based on this information, the Panda switch offers a more invigorating and tactile feel, while the Matcha switch provides a feathery, subtle, and stepped tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and KTT Matcha switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda switch provides a deeply resonant and thocky sound profile, while the Matcha switch delivers a sharp and clacky sound. In terms of feel, the Panda switch offers an invigorating, accented tactile sensation, while the Matcha switch provides a stepped, snappy, feathery, and subtle feel. It is important to consider personal preferences and the specific requirements of the user when choosing between these switches. However, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a super responsive tactile force and a deep thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the one for you. The Panda offers an unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation that sets a new gold standard for those who prioritize hypertactility and a full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, if you are looking for a comfortable, snappy tactility with a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is the better choice. The Matcha provides a comfortable typing experience with its stepped feel and snappy response. Additionally, it offers a clean and crisp sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you prefer a hyper-tactile experience with a deep thocky sound (Panda) or a comfortable and snappy feel with a clean sound (Matcha). Consider your preferences and prioritize what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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