Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Green stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it a favorite among those who prioritize tactile feedback and a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without the audible click associated with many mechanical switches. While the Panda is categorized as ['Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant'], the Silent Green falls under a different category. If you're looking for a switch that provides a tactile and auditory delight, the Panda might be the way to go, whereas the Silent Green could be ideal if you prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Green, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is aesthetically pleasing for switches that feature RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound.
The difference in bottom housing material between the Panda and the Silent Green impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Panda contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Green leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in housing materials highlights how each component plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience.
While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Green differ in their bottom housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Panda's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The combination of these housing materials in each switch affects the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Green boasts an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, providing a similar typing experience in terms of the pressure required to fully press a key. However, the Panda requires a slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Silent Green. The difference in actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. Ultimately, the weight of the switch can impact how comfortable and efficient typing or gaming sessions can be, with lighter switches being favored for prolonged use and heavier switches offering a more pronounced tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience and key press depth when using either switch. Both switches offer a consistent feel and performance while typing or gaming. Overall, while the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch have the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key press depth and tactile feedback.
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 Silent 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 renowned for its resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a deep, sonorous audio feedback that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch's sound qualities are not specified, making it difficult to compare to the distinctive sound of the Panda. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is characterized as accented and invigorating, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, yet still provides a satisfying tactile experience. The switch is described as reactive and snappy, enhancing the typing sensation for users who prefer a tactile response. Unfortunately, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch are not available, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison to the Panda.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of hyper-tactility and thocky sound profile, providing users with a responsive and immersive typing experience. While the Outemu Silent Green linear switch's qualities are unknown in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences, typing style, and desired characteristics when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches may offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences, but opting for the Panda could provide a well-rounded and tactile experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value hyper-tactility, a deep "thocky" sound profile, and a medium bottom out force, then the Aflion Panda is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent typing experience with a medium bottom out force and do not prioritize tactile feedback, then the Outemu Silent Green may be more suited to your preferences. Consider the type of typing experience you value most when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision rests in your hands and what feels best for your personal typing style.
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