Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, perfect for those who prioritize tactile feedback and a rich auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum is praised for its smooth keystrokes and satisfying sound, making it a great option for enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing feel. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Cold Plum's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profile is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the softness of nylon, which affects how each material resonates and absorbs sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal that nylon does not provide.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Panda and Cold Plum switches use nylon as the material. This results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. The absorption qualities of nylon contribute to a duller and rounder sound, which can create a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Despite having different top housings, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches ensures a consistent tactile feel and sound quality when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Cold Plum switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback. While the Panda offers a sharper, crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Cold Plum provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches deliver a consistent typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cold Plum's 60 grams. On the other hand, the Panda has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams while the Cold Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Panda may be the preferred choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Cold Plum with its heavier forces could be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Cold Plum switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Panda switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate tactile feedback. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Panda switch offering a deeper press and the Cold Plum switch offering a quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Cold Plum 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 comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch in terms of sound, the Panda is known for its resonant and thocky sound profile that offers a deep and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Cold Plum is also described as having a thocky sound profile, but specific details about the sound are not available for comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Panda is highlighted for its accented and invigorating tactile sensation that offers a super responsive tactile force and an immersive typing experience. In contrast, details about the typing feel of the Cold Plum switch are not provided for direct comparison. Despite this, enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing feel may still find satisfaction in the smooth keystrokes and satisfying sound of the Cold Plum switches.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch each have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Panda offers a hyper-tactile sensation and a resonant sound profile, the Cold Plum provides a smooth keystroke and a thocky sound experience. Ultimately, users can expect a fulfilling typing experience with either switch option, depending on their preference for tactility and sound feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Panda's medium bottom out force of 60 grams provides a responsive and tactile typing experience perfect for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth keystroke and a thocky sound profile that is distinct and enjoyable, then the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch would suit your preferences better with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile in your typing experience.
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