Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Black, a linear switch. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it a top choice for those who value an enhanced tactile experience and rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Black lacks specific standout features but is known for its smooth linear feel. While the Panda offers a unique tactile experience, the Black provides a straightforward linear feel. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Black, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This means that both the Panda and the Black will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to the top housing material.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Black also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of creating a deeper sound profile and absorbing more sound to create a different typing experience compared to its polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Black splits the qualities between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. This dual housing design allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with each housing material contributing its own characteristics to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Black's heavier 65 grams. Similarly, the Panda's bottom out force of 60 grams is lighter than the Black's 82 grams. This means that typing on the Panda switch may feel lighter and require less effort, while the Black switch will provide a more substantial and heavy typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, with the lighter Panda switch being ideal for longer typing sessions and the heavier Black switch appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. In both cases, users can expect distinct typing experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel before reaching the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent amount of feedback and actuation at the same distance, making them equally suitable for typing or gaming. However, it is worth noting that the tactile feel of the Panda switch is distinct from the linear feel of the Outemu Black switch, offering users different options based on their preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Panda or Black switch, you can expect a similar travel distance and performance.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers a resonant and immersive auditory experience with a high-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Panda tactile switch provides an accented and invigorating typing experience with a medium level of tactility that is not overpowering yet not subtle either. This switch also offers a snappy and reactive feel, making typing on it quite engaging. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Black linear switch is not specified.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile, offering a unique and satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate strong tactility and audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks specific information regarding its sound and feel qualities, making it difficult to directly compare to the Panda. If the user prefers a tactile typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and a resonant sound, the Panda would be the preferred choice. If the user is looking for a smooth and consistent linear switch, the Outemu Black may also provide a satisfying typing experience, although the specifics remain unknown.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, you should opt for the Panda if you value a medium bottom out force, hyper-tactile sensation, and a resonant, thocky sound profile. The Panda is perfect for those who seek a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback and a super responsive tactile force. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a linear switch without any specific standout features, the Outemu Black may be more in line with your preferences. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound quality (Panda) or a heavy linear switch without any special characteristics (Black).
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