Aflion Panda vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, to the Cherry Nixie, a linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and "thocky" sound profile, making it a top choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback and a rich audio experience. On the other hand, the Nixie is praised for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending traditional design with modern innovation from Cherry's latest update. While the Panda is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched'. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Overall, both the Aflion Panda and the Cherry Nixie utilize nylon in their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. However, while both switches share this characteristic in their bottom housing, they differ in their top housing material. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a higher-pitched and clearer sound, while the Nixie's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the Panda's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This allows for a visually appealing experience with customizable lighting effects. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top housing does not offer the same translucency but instead focuses on enhancing the sound profile with a deeper and fuller tone. While both top housing materials have their own unique advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether one prioritizes sound quality or visual aesthetics in their keyboard setup.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials for each switch plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material directly impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing the key. This distinction highlights the importance of both housing materials working in tandem to create a well-rounded typing experience that balances sound quality and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Panda or the fuller sound of nylon in the Nixie, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch reveals a notable difference in weight. The Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Nixie boasts a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. This contrast in weight highlights the different typing experiences each switch offers. Some may prefer the lighter touch of the Panda for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may gravitate towards the stronger push feel of the Nixie for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys of either switch, you will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will have a similar typing experience with both switches, as they will both provide a uniform amount of key travel. Despite being different types of switches (tactile vs linear), the Panda and Nixie switches offer a comparable travel distance, resulting in a similar typing feel for users.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 and sharp sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience for the user. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving a deep and satisfying typing sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Panda's resonant sound is more high-pitched and clean, while the Nixie provides a rich and bass-heavy tone. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the other components of the keyboard setup.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is praised for its invigorating and accented tactile feedback, offering a medium tactile sensation that is not overwhelming but still provides a significant amount of tactility. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the more subtle texture of the Nixie for a smoother typing experience, while others may enjoy the pronounced feedback and reactive feel of the Panda. Again, the preference for feel will vary depending on individual preference and typing style.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is best suited for those seeking a hyper-tactile sensation and a resonant, thocky sound profile, along with invigorating and accented tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a more traditional textured typing experience with a low-pitched thocky sound. Both switches bring their own unique qualities to the table, providing users with different options depending on their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and Cherry Nixie switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Aflion Panda if you value hyper-tactility, a full-bodied sound profile with a deep "thocky" echo, and a medium bottom out force of 60 grams. The Panda offers an invigorating and accented typing experience with a resonant sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the Cherry Nixie if you prefer a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams, substantial heft, and a textured typing experience. The Nixie provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile along with a textured feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a resonant sound (Panda) or a heavy, textured typing experience (Nixie).
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