Aflion Panda vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options worth considering are the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. The Aflion Panda is known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and profound "thocky" sound profile. This switch is perfect for those who value a highly responsive tactile force and enjoy a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are praised for their exquisitely gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. These switches offer a softer and more seductive typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
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 housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in terms of the materials used. The Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange uses a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It also allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, nylon, being a softer plastic, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the Panda's polycarbonate top housing results in a more clear and resonant sound, while the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Panda and the Meteor Orange differ, with the Panda using nylon and the Meteor Orange also using nylon. Both nylon bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, both the Panda and the Meteor Orange will result in a duller and rounder sound when typing due to their nylon bottom housings.
In terms of the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the top and bottom housings play different roles. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch. This means that the qualities of the nylon bottom housing in both the Panda and the Meteor Orange will be felt more during the act of pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the top housing of the switch, which is polycarbonate for the Panda and nylon for the Meteor Orange, will have more influence on the sound when you release a key. Therefore, the choice of top housing material will affect the sound profile when releasing keys, while the bottom housing material will affect the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The actuation force of the Panda is 50 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unavailable. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams while the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force.
Considering weight, the lighter option can be more suitable for those who prefer prolonged typing sessions, such as when using a keyboard at work or during long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force of the Meteor Orange, although unknown, suggests a potentially lighter typing experience compared to the Panda.
On the other hand, some individuals may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these users, switches with heavier forces would be more appropriate. In this case, the Panda's bottom out force, which is 60 grams, may provide a more satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, while the actuation force of the Meteor Orange remains unknown, it can be concluded that the Aflion Panda offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the Meteor Orange. However, it is important to note that without the exact actuation force for the Meteor Orange, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. Nevertheless, individuals looking for a medium-light switch may find the Meteor Orange appealing, while those seeking a slightly heavier tactile switch might be more inclined to choose the Panda.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance one can feel when pressing down on a key. In the case of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the distance the switch travels when pressed down is the same for both switches, resulting in similar experiences for the user. Therefore, there is no difference in the travel distance between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch as they both have a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda switch offers a unique and immersive auditory experience. It is described as resonant, which means it has a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. This switch produces a profound "thocky" sound, creating a deep and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch has a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. It offers a moderate actuation force and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. However, it also has a thocky characteristic, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch provides an invigorating typing sensation. It offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This switch is considered "accented," providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. It offers a gentle and soft tactility, making it a great option for those who prefer switches with more subtle characteristics. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Aflion Panda and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Panda switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and its profound "thocky" sound profile. It provides an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch offers a gentle and soft tactility with a neutral sound profile. Its polished finish provides a smooth typing experience with reduced friction. While they have different qualities, both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences. Depending on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are seeking, either switch can offer satisfying results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep, "thocky" sound profile, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium level of resistance. The Panda switches offer an invigorating feel, providing pronounced feedback and a reactive typing experience. The sound profile of the Panda switches is resonant, resulting in a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and more gentle tactile switch with a neutral sound profile, then the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be a great option for you. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a medium-light level of resistance. The Meteor Orange switches provide muted tactility and a seductive feel. The sound profile is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches depends on your preference for tactile feel and sound profile. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile experience and a resonant sound, go for the Panda switches. If you prefer a gentler tactile experience and a thocky sound, opt for the Meteor Orange switches. Consider your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience when making a decision.
Mentioned in this article
