Aflion Panda vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the KTT Mint, a linear switch. The Aflion Panda is best known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and profoundly "thocky" sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is beloved for its satisfyingly smooth linear feel. With its long pole stem, typing on the Mint switch provides a poppy thockiness, and it offers a light and fleeting typing experience. While these general descriptions may give you some insight into the switches, it's important to dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to decide which switch is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the KTT Mint switches have a significant similarity as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches. This is due to its stiffness, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Aflion Panda and the KTT Mint switches will provide similar sound profiles and visual effects when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the main difference between these switches lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Panda utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Mint also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. Therefore, both switches offer a comparable sound when it comes to their nylon bottom housings, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for their users.
Considering the separate impact of the top and bottom housings, it becomes clear that the Aflion Panda and KTT Mint switches will differ in terms of the sound and feel during key presses. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will play a more significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, users of the Panda and Mint switches will experience subtle variations in sound and tactile feedback depending on whether they are pressing or releasing a key, making each switch unique in its own way.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Panda requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Mint is slightly lighter, requiring only 45 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of actuation force. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Panda has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Mint is again lighter at 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Mint switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and forceful keystroke may find the Panda switch more suitable, as it requires a slightly stronger push. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Overall, while the forces required for both actuation and bottom out differ between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, they provide comparable results for users seeking medium or medium-light experiences, respectively.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel a consistent 4mm of travel distance for both switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Panda or the Mint switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 best described as resonant. When typing on the Panda switch, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience. The sound profile is clean and sharp, providing a satisfying thocky echo that sets it apart. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. With a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, typing on the Mint switch offers a poppy thockiness that is distinct. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is often described as accented. This means that it offers a medium amount of tactility, providing a prominent but not overwhelming tactile feedback. The switch has a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch provides a mild typing experience. It offers a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users. Additionally, the Mint switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. These switches have reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall feel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Panda switch is known for its hyper-tactile sensation and resonant sound profile, providing a full-bodied and sonorous audio feedback. It offers an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. On the other hand, the Mint switch excels in its satisfyingly smooth linear action and low-pitched sound profile. It provides a light and fleeting typing feel, accompanied by a poppy thockiness. Both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences of users.
If you are looking for a highly tactile switch with a resonant sound and invigorating typing sensation, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother linear switch with a mild typing experience and a low-pitched sound, the KTT Mint switch would be a suitable option. It is worth mentioning that individual preferences can vary, and it is recommended to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you value a highly tactile switch with a deep, resonant sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the one for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams and its unparalleled hyper-tactility, typing on the Panda will provide you with a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear switch with a lighter touch, the KTT Mint linear switch is the better option. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and its poppy thockiness, typing on the Mint will give you a satisfyingly smooth and fleeting type feel. Ultimately, the decision depends on your preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile, but both switches offer unique advantages that can enhance your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
