Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it becomes evident that each switch offers unique features that cater to different preferences. The Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize responsiveness and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Gold switch does not have any distinctive features listed but falls under a different category. If you are looking for an accented and invigorating typing experience, the Panda may be the better choice. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Both the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Gold feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Panda and the Gold differ in their bottom housings. The Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gold's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Gold have differences in sound due to their bottom housings. While the Panda's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Gold's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a crisper and clearer bottom-out sound. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, with nylon offering a softer and more absorbing quality compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In terms of tactile feedback and sound profile, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Gold showcase how the use of different housing materials can affect keypress experiences. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches allows for a nuanced typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material become evident during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Overall, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed choices based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
Comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, the Panda has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold's 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which means they provide a similar typing experience in terms of force needed to fully press the key. The Panda offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. However, the Gold may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience for different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress experience from both switches. Overall, the travel distance of these switches provides a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a moderate key travel distance.
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 Gold 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 provides a resonant and deep "thocky" sound profile, giving off a clean and sharp auditory experience that adds to the typing immersion. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is currently unknown. It is essential to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by various other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience with a medium level of tactility that is neither overpowering nor subtle. This switch provides a responsive tactile force that enhances the typing sensation, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a tactile feel while typing. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is currently unavailable.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Aflion Panda tactile switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, providing a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep, resonant sound profile. While information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch is limited, it can be assumed that users may experience a different but equally satisfying typing experience compared to the Panda. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will be able to find a switch that suits their individual typing needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you value a hyper-tactile sensation paired with a deep and resonant "thocky" sound profile, the Panda switch is the way to go. This switch offers a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and is best suited for those who prioritize tactility and auditory feedback in their typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and are not as concerned with specific sound and feel characteristics, the Gold switch may be a better fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features you prioritize most in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
