Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Cream Pink stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is best known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. It offers a super responsive tactile force paired with a sonorous audio feedback, making it ideal for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink is a linear switch that lacks any specific standout features but is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes. While the Panda offers an invigorating and resonant typing experience, the Cream Pink provides a more subtle and straightforward typing experience. 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
50g
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
Partial box
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
Comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Cream Pink, we see a notable difference in their top housing materials. The Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream Pink features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles is directly influenced by the stiffness of polycarbonate leading to clear and resonant sounds, while the softer nature of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of these switches, both the Panda and the Cream Pink use nylon for their bottom housings. This choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. Nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively results in a more subdued and less impactful bottom-out sound and feel. This shared feature in the housing materials of these switches showcases the importance of material choice in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience of a mechanical switch.
In summary, while the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Cream Pink differ in their top housing materials with polycarbonate and nylon respectively, they share nylon as the material for their bottom housings. This commonality in bottom housing material leads to a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on both switches. However, the distinction in top housing materials results in contrasting sound profiles with the Panda offering a sharper and crisper sound, while the Cream Pink provides a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to whether you prefer a brighter and more resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them similar in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams, while the Cream Pink needs 65 grams, making the Cream Pink the heavier of the two. The Panda provides a medium actuation and bottom out force, while the Cream Pink falls into the medium-heavy category.
When considering weight, some may prefer a lighter switch like the Panda for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. The lighter actuation and bottom out force can help reduce fatigue and strain on the fingers. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the heavier Cream Pink switch. The extra 5 grams of force required for bottoming out can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a stronger push feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing experience and comfort.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, the distance traveled by the switch will be the same. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will experience a consistent typing or gaming experience regardless of which switch they choose. The matching travel distance of 4 mm makes it easier for users to switch between keyboards with these different switches without noticing a significant difference in feel. Overall, the Aflion Panda and Outemu Cream Pink switches offer the same travel distance, providing a comparable typing experience 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 Outemu Cream Pink 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 is known for its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, not much is known about the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch. However, it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as keyboard housing and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is praised for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a balanced amount of tactility that enhances the typing experience. The hyper-tactile sensation of the Panda switch provides a satisfying and responsive feel with each keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the tactile feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Aflion Panda tactile switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, offering a unique and premium typing experience for those who value tactile feedback and a deep sound profile. Although not much information is available on the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is likely that it may not match the same level of tactile feedback and sound experience as the Panda. If a user seeks a switch with similar characteristics to the Panda, it may be best to opt for another hyper-tactile option to achieve comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you value a highly tactile experience with a deep thocky sound, the Aflion Panda is the way to go. The Panda offers a hyper-tactile sensation and a resonant, immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, linear switch without tactile feedback, the Outemu Cream Pink may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, consider your typing style and preferences in terms of tactility and sound when deciding between these two switches.
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