Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Oil King (V2) 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 and the Gateron Oil King. The Panda, a tactile switch, is renowned for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. With a strong emphasis on hypertactility and a sonorous audio feedback, it sets a new gold standard for those who crave a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King, a linear switch, stands out for its buttery smoothness and the rich sound profile akin to snapping a dark chocolate bar. Its low-pitched, creamy, and silky feel makes typing a truly satisfying experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best-informed decision on which switch suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Oil King differ in terms of the sound profile they create. The Panda uses a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, crisper, and higher-pitched sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for clearer and more resonant sounds. On the other hand, the Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and less sharp sound profile. Therefore, those who prefer a brighter and more crisp sound may lean towards the Panda, while those who prefer a deeper and fuller sound may opt for the Oil King.
Likewise, when comparing the bottom housings of the two switches, the materials also contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which again elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Similarly, the Oil King boasts its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, known for a pointed, relatively high-pitched, and clacky sound. While both bottom housings create a deeper sound, the Panda's nylon housing may provide a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Oil King's INK blend housing.
In summary, the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Oil King differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound, while the Oil King's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Moreover, the Panda's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and rounder sound, whereas the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing creates a pointed and clacky sound. However, if individuals desire similar results, they can choose either switch based on their preference for a brighter and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Panda requires 50 grams of force, while the Oil King requires slightly more at 55 grams. Although the difference is modest, those seeking a lighter touch may find the Panda more suitable for extended typing sessions or extended gaming periods. When it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams, and the Oil King requires a slightly higher 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Oil King does lean towards the heavier side, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while the differences between the two switches are relatively small, individuals looking for a lighter switch may favor the Aflion Panda, while those desiring a slightly more forceful typing experience may opt for the Gateron Oil King.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience and sensation when pressing down on a key. Whether you choose the Panda or the Oil King, you can expect the same level of travel distance, ensuring a consistent typing or gaming experience. While the exact details of their internal mechanisms and structure may differ, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same distance for key press actuation.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, providing a satisfying feedback during each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. When typing on these switches, the sound is reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. It has a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is accented, providing a medium tactile experience that is not overly intense but still noticeable. It offers a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Typing on these switches gives a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is best characterized as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience, as if gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly. They minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. The Oil King switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, it is evident that the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Panda switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and resonant sound profile, providing a full-bodied and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Oil King switch is praised for its smoothness and creamy typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound profile. While these switches have their unique qualities, both can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with intense tactility and a resonant sound, the Panda switch is an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Oil King switch will suit your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a super responsive and hyper-tactile typing experience with a deep thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium weight feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Panda switch offers an invigorating and pronounced feedback, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, then the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a medium-heavy weight feel. The Oil King switch offers a creamy, silky, and polished typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a seamless and effortless keystroke. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on your preference for tactility and sound, with the Panda switch being the go-to for hypertactility and a full-bodied audio feedback, and the Oil King switch offering a smooth and mellow typing experience.
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