Aflion Panda vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the KTT Miaowu offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is widely praised for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu is a linear switch that boasts enhanced stem stability and a smooth keystroke action thanks to its POK stem. If you’re looking for a switch that is "Accented", "Invigorating", and "Resonant", the Aflion Panda may be the perfect choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a switch that is "Bouncy" and "Clacky", the KTT Miaowu could be more up your alley. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and KTT Miaowu both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for the switches to be used with RGB lighting effectively, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound quality. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, they may differ in terms of color and design, offering users a variety of options to choose from.
In contrast, the Panda and Miaowu both feature nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The qualities of the bottom housing material will be more evident in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, emphasizing the impact of the material on the typing experience. Despite using the same bottom housing material, the switches may differ in design and thickness, influencing the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Aflion Panda and KTT Miaowu switches offers users a unique typing experience. While the top housings contribute to the sound when keys are released, the bottom houses play a significant role in the typing feel and bottom-out sound. Both switches provide a balance between a sharp, crisp sound and a deep, full sound, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a stiffer and more resonant sound or a softer and fuller sound, these switches offer a versatile range of options for customization.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Panda requires a heavier force overall. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Miaowu has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. The Panda provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Miaowu offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Miaowu linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Panda tactile switch. The Panda's 4 mm travel distance is more in line with the traditional distance, offering a balance between shallow and deep key presses. On the other hand, the Miaowu's 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and response speed.
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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 is known for its resonant, higher-pitched sound profile that offers an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as producing a clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. When considering sound, it is essential to note that the overall audio feedback of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is known for offering an accented typing experience, providing a medium level of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming or subtle. It is considered invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel that enhances the typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as feeling bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively rebound when pressed.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch excels in providing a hyper-tactile typing experience with a deep thocky sound profile, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch offers enhanced stem stability and a smoother keystroke action with a clacky sound and bouncy feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Panda focusing on hypertactility and sonorous audio feedback, while the Miaowu emphasizes smooth keystrokes and enhanced stem stability. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you value a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep, "thocky" sound profile, then the Panda would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke action with a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, then the Miaowu may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what attributes you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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