Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, a linear switch, present distinct options for different preferences. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those who value a responsive tactile force and rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a silent linear experience without any specific standout features. While the Panda provides an invigorating and resonant typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean remains unassuming. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Dustproof Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon's softer nature absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder overall sound. While the materials differ between the top and bottom housings of the switches, they each contribute unique qualities to the sound and feel of typing.
Despite their similarities in using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean may offer slightly different typing experiences. The Panda's top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing may play a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This demonstrates how the distribution of housing materials can influence the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean may come down to personal preference in the sound and feel of typing. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound or a softer, rounder sound may impact your decision between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Panda requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda is lighter with 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 65 grams, making the Dustproof Silent Ocean the heavier option overall. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a tactile response. Those who prioritize a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Panda, while users seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Panda has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 3.3 mm. The Panda's 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 3.3 mm provides a shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for faster response times, while those seeking a more substantial keypress may opt for the Panda with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Silent Ocean 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a known sound description, making it difficult to compare with the Panda in this aspect. 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, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, yet provides a satisfying typing sensation. The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a known feel description, making it challenging to directly compare with the Panda in this regard.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch excels in providing a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile, making it ideal for those who value tactile feedback and a sonorous audio experience. While the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch may offer its own unique qualities, the lack of known descriptions for sound and feel makes it difficult to directly compare with the Panda. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, you should choose the Panda if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep, thocky sound profile. The Panda offers a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and is known for its unparalleled tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a silent typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better option for you. Ultimately, consider your preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and bottom out force when selecting between these two switches to enhance your typing experience.
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