Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Melodic stand out as popular options in the tactile and clicky switch categories, respectively. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, appealing to those who prioritize a satisfying tactile feedback and sonorous audio experience. On the other hand, the Melodic by Gateron offers a unique blend of smoothness, classic clicky sound, and tactile feedback, thanks to advancements like factory lubing and dual-railed stems. While the Panda is described as ['Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant'], and the Melodic as ['Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy'], both switches offer distinct benefits that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Gateron Melodic both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Panda's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound due to its softer composition. On the other hand, the Melodic also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound experience to the Panda.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Melodic gives them a similar sound profile, with a sharper and crisper tone. The translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making them both visually appealing switches. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. While the Panda's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a deeper typing experience, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing also offers a similar deep and full sound profile, resulting in a comparable typing experience overall.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are spread between the top and bottom housing. The Panda's nylon bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top polycarbonate housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing impacts the typing experience, with the top polycarbonate housing contributing to the overall sound profile. Overall, both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that result in a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the Panda is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which are medium. On the other hand, the Melodic has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 60 grams, also considered medium. Both switches have the same bottom out force, allowing for a consistent typing experience in terms of pressure exerted when pressing down fully. However, the Panda requires a lighter touch to trigger a keypress compared to the Melodic, making it a better choice for those who prefer a softer keystroke. The Melodic, on the other hand, provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force, which may be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This identical feature allows users to get similar results in terms of tactile feedback and keypress feel. In comparison to other switches with longer or shorter travel distances, the Panda and Melodic offer a standard distance that is neither too shallow nor too deep, providing a balance between key responsiveness and keypress comfort.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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, both the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Melodic switches offer a resonant typing experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. The Panda provides a deep thocky echo, while the Melodic adds a crunchy element to the classic clicky sound. Choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more immersive auditory experience with a thocky echo or you enjoy the added crunchiness of the Melodic switch.
In terms of feel, the Panda switch delivers an accented tactile sensation that falls between being overly tactile and too smooth, offering a medium-tactile experience that is satisfying without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Melodic switch provides a buttery smooth keystroke experience with invigorating tactile feedback, ensuring a responsive and reactive typing feel. Deciding between the two will hinge on whether you prioritize a balanced tactile response or a seamless and effortless keystroke.
Overall, both the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Melodic switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you value hyper-tactility and a sonorous audio feedback, the Panda is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth keystroke with a classic clicky sound and smoothness, the Melodic switch is the better choice. It's important to consider your personal preferences for sound and feel when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value hyper-tactility, a deep thocky sound profile, and a full-bodied tactile experience, then the Panda switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a classic clicky sound with smoothness and dual-railed stems, then the Melodic switch from Gateron might be more suitable for your needs. Consider how important sound and feel are to your typing experience, and select the switch that aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose wisely based on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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