Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Purple offer two distinct experiences for users. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch with no specific standout feature, but it still provides a satisfying typing experience. If you're looking for a switch that offers unparalleled tactility and a rich sound experience, the Panda may be the way to go. 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
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Despite this similarity, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Purple share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their differences in bottom housing material bring distinct qualities to the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the impact of the sound will differ slightly due to the unique characteristics of each switch's overall construction. The Panda's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly softer feel while typing, compared to the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing. However, the overall sound profile is likely to be similar due to the absorption qualities of nylon.
In terms of design and functionality, both the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Purple showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of a switch. The choice of polycarbonate for the top housing in both switches highlights a preference for a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for users seeking a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the utilization of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches enhances the overall sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, while there may be subtle differences in the typing experience between the Panda and the Dustproof Purple due to their housing materials, the overall results in sound quality are likely to be similar due to the shared characteristics of the materials used.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, we see that the Panda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Purple's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams while the Dustproof Purple needs 65 grams, making the Dustproof Purple the heavier option. This means that the Panda provides a lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple offers a more substantial push feel, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, so users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel before the key actuates. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click during actuation, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is the same, resulting in a similar typing experience regardless of which one you choose.
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 Dustproof Purple 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 renowned for its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and immersive auditory experience. The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, however, does not have any specific sound descriptors available. This means that while the Panda offers a high-pitched and clean sound, the sound profile of the Dustproof Purple remains unknown and may require personal experience to determine how it compares.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is often described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overpowering but still noticeable. This provides a satisfying typing experience with a good amount of feedback and a reactive feel. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Overall, if you prioritize an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for a clicky switch with unknown sound and feel characteristics, the Outemu Dustproof Purple may still provide a satisfactory typing experience. Keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in selecting the right switch, so it's recommended to try both switches if possible to determine which one best suits your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Panda if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep, thocky sound profile. This switch offers a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a resonant typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Dustproof Purple if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a clicky switch without specific features. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience.
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