Aflion Panda vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and Cherry MX Red offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Panda is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize a satisfying typing experience with a pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel and robust typing experience, combining responsiveness with a deeper sound profile. Each switch has its own characteristics that appeal to different users' 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Cherry MX Red, the differences are quite apparent. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the MX Red's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and dull sound. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound output.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Panda and the MX Red utilize nylon for this component. Nylon, known for its softer properties and sound absorption capabilities, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile on both switches. This similarity in housing material indicates that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches may be quite similar, providing a consistent typing experience for users who appreciate the qualities nylon brings to the table. Despite having different top housings, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housings suggests that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and feel.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with each other, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are divided between the two components. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during the bottom-out phase of typing, influencing the sound and feel at that moment. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of both top and bottom housings in determining the overall typing experience on switches like the Aflion Panda and the Cherry MX Red.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Panda has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the MX Red's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Panda is also heavier at 60 grams, while the MX Red's bottom out force is unavailable. This means that the Panda switch requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down, providing a more substantial typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the MX Red may be the better option due to its lighter actuation force. In contrast, individuals seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the Panda switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and preferences of the user.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4mm, making them both equally efficient in providing a consistent typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth key press with a responsive feel, ensuring that users can easily type with precision and comfort. With the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key travel and typing feedback, regardless of which switch they choose to use. The parallel travel distances of both switches highlight their reliability and consistency in providing a satisfying typing experience.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 tactile switch offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience, characterized by a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch presents a thocky and low-pitched sound, producing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed and released. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound of a switch.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming, yet provides a prominent tactile sensation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, potentially having noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer a subtle texture for a unique typing experience, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free feel.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and resonant sound profile, appealing to those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a slightly heftier feel and a deep thocky sound, combining responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will achieve a specific typing experience based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Panda switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the MX Red switch could be the optimal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to consider what tactile and auditory feedback you prefer when making your decision.
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