Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Lotus offer distinct experiences for users to consider. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. If you value a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback, the Aflion Panda may be the switch for you. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus is a linear switch that does not have any specific defining features mentioned. This switch may appeal to those who prefer a more straightforward typing experience without the 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Lotus, one noticeable difference is the material used in the top housing. The Panda utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Lotus uses nylon for a deeper and fuller sound. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the choice between these two materials will ultimately depend on the desired sound profile for the user.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, both the Panda and the Lotus feature nylon. This material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will have a consistent sound profile regardless of the specific switch model. While the bottom housing may not have as significant of an impact on the overall typing experience as the top housing, it still contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Lotus play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While the Panda's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Lotus's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a consistent sound profile across different switch models. Ultimately, the choice between these two materials will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience for the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Panda has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Lotus boasts a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Lotus offers a lighter touch, perfect for typing for extended periods without fatigue. Both switches offer unique benefits - the Panda for a more robust typing experience and the Lotus for a lighter touch for longer usage. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Lotus the shorter of the two switches in terms of travel distance. The Panda offers a more traditional travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth. On the other hand, the Lotus with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches offer their own unique benefits and can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience based on individual preferences.
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 Lotus 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 known for its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience that is deeply satisfying to the ears. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is currently not available. This means that while typing on the Panda will result in a distinct and immersive audio feedback, the sound of the Lotus remains a mystery until further data is provided or experienced firsthand.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Panda offers an accented and invigorating tactile experience that strikes a perfect balance between tactile feedback and smoothness. This switch provides a moderate to firm actuation force, giving users a responsive and satisfying typing sensation. The Outemu Lotus linear switch, unfortunately, lacks specific descriptors for its tactile feel at the moment, leaving us unable to compare directly. In this case, opting for the Panda would ensure a tactile typing experience that is both enjoyable and engaging.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its exceptional tactile feel and resonant sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who value a hyper-tactile typing experience accompanied by a deep, thocky sound. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Lotus linear switch remain unknown, opting for the Panda would likely result in a similar level of satisfaction in both tactile feedback and auditory experience. For those seeking a premium typing experience, the Aflion Panda switch is a top contender in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep "thocky" sound profile, as well as a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, then the Panda switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a linear switch without any specific sound or feel characteristics highlighted, then the Lotus switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most, whether it's the tactile feedback and sound of the Panda or the smooth linear action of the Lotus.
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