Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Aflion Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize tactile feedback and auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown may not have a specific standout feature like the Panda, but it still offers a reliable tactile typing experience. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on your preference for sound profile and tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
The Aflion Panda and the Outemu Crystal Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, while both switches have the same top housing material, the Panda's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
One key difference between the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Crystal Brown is their bottom housing materials. The Panda uses nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Crystal Brown also uses nylon for its bottom housing, but the sound produced is duller and rounder. This showcases how the bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound of a switch. However, both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile with a sharper tone.
In terms of typing experience, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Crystal Brown plays a significant role. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Panda's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience compared to the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing, which produces a duller sound. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall feel and sound of typing on these switches, showcasing how the choice of housing materials can impact the user experience. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique sound profile due to their housing materials, making them suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for distinct typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal Brown is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Panda is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a similar medium bottom out force, with the Panda requiring 60 grams and the Crystal Brown needing 55 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Crystal Brown would be the better choice, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Panda offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force, which some users may find satisfying for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance before the switch reaches the bottom. This consistency in travel distance ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience with both switches. Overall, the travel distance of these switches contributes to their tactile feedback and typing feel, providing a satisfying keypress for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Crystal Brown 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 switch offers a uniquely resonant and thocky typing experience, providing a clean and sharp sound profile that is immersive and satisfying. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch. However, it is important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Panda is touted for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming yet still provides a satisfying amount of feedback. This results in a typing sensation that is responsive and engaging. Unfortunately, there is no detailed information provided about the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch.
In conclusion, for those who prioritize a hyper-tactile and resonant typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda switch would be the superior choice. However, if you are looking for an alternative switch with similar characteristics, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may provide a comparable level of performance. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when making a decision between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, the Crystal Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and value hyper-tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Panda switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience.
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