Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, it's essential to consider the distinct characteristics of each. The Panda is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize tactile feedback and a full-bodied audio experience. On the other hand, the Green switch from Outemu doesn't have a specific standout feature but offers a classic clicky switch experience. While the Panda may appeal to users seeking an invigorating and resonant typing experience, the Green switch provides a more traditional clicky feel. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The Aflion Panda and the Outemu Green both share polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing illumination effect. Despite both switches having the same top housing material, they may still offer slightly different sound profiles and aesthetics based on other factors such as stem design and overall switch construction.
In contrast, the Panda and the Green diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Green's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may be preferred by those seeking a smoother typing experience. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the Panda likely offering a more muted and satisfying typing experience compared to the Green.
Overall, while both the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Green share some housing materials, such as polycarbonate in their top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials means that each switch offers a unique typing experience to users. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the Panda's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and fuller sound of the Panda's nylon bottom housing, there is a switch option available to suit your preferences. Each housing material contributes to the overall performance and aesthetic appeal of the switch, making it essential to consider the material composition when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Green clicky switch. The Panda requires 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Green needs 65 grams to actuate and 80 grams to bottom out. This means that the Panda offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Green switch offers a heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that they will both provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. This means that the tactile feedback and clickiness of the switches will be consistent across both types. This can be beneficial for users who prefer a specific travel distance in their switches, as they can expect similar results regardless of which switch they choose. In conclusion, the travel distance of both the Panda and Green switches are equal, 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 Green 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 is known for its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a rich and immersive auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to compare the two switches directly in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as having an accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. It provides a snappy and reactive feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. As for the Outemu Green clicky switch, information on its tactile feel is not available, making it challenging to directly compare it with the Panda in this regard.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation, deep thocky sound profile, and invigorating tactile feedback, setting a high standard for those who prioritize tactile response and auditory feedback in their mechanical keyboards. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Green clicky switch in terms of sound and feel are unknown, it is possible to achieve similar results by experimenting with different combinations of switches, keycaps, and keyboards to find the perfect match for your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Panda Tactile switch and the Outemu Green Clicky switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a hyper-tactile sensation with a thocky sound profile, then the Panda switch is the way to go. The Aflion Panda offers a unique tactile experience that is responsive and sonorous. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and prioritize a clicky sound, then the Outemu Green switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience.