Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Grey both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those who value intense tactility and a sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is renowned for its quiet operation and highly tactile typing experience, with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke for satisfying yet silent typing sessions. 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
50g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Grey, we can see that they both feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, the two switches may still vary in terms of the actual sound produced, as other factors such as the design of the switch and the overall build quality can influence the final result.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Panda and the Silent Grey feature a nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, thanks to its softer nature which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the sharper sound created by polycarbonate. While both switches may benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housing, the overall typing experience and sound produced may still differ based on other variables unique to each switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Grey highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of a switch. While the two switches share some similarities in their materials, the overall typing experience and sound produced may still vary due to factors like design, build quality, and other elements. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile that each user is looking for in their mechanical keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equal in this aspect. However, the Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Grey has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Silent Grey switch slightly heavier in terms of the force required for a full key press. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as a lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, ideal for work or gaming. A heavier switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and Outemu Silent Grey switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda and Outemu Silent Grey tactile switches both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent and uniform travel distance of 4mm from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Panda or the Silent Grey, you will get a similar tactile feedback and typing experience due to the identical travel distance. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the Aflion Panda and Outemu Silent Grey tactile switches.
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 Grey 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, higher-pitched sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is designed to provide a quiet typing experience, making it perfect for those who prefer a more subdued sound while still enjoying a tactile feel. The Panda switch will deliver a deep, thocky echo, while the Silent Grey switch offers a quiet and satisfying typing experience without the loudness associated with some other tactile switches.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Panda switch is appreciated for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation that many users find enjoyable. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the Outemu Silent Grey switch are not available. However, based on its reputation for being highly tactile and smooth, users can expect a pronounced bump and a satisfying keystroke that is quiet and reliable.
All in all, the Aflion Panda is ideal for those who prioritize hyper-tactility and a full-bodied sound profile, while the Outemu Silent Grey is perfect for those seeking a quiet and tactile typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual typing preferences and priorities. Ultimately, if you prefer a tactile experience, you can expect similar results in terms of feel, but the sound profile will vary greatly between the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Grey switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch that offers a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you're in search of a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, then the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your preference for sound and feel during typing. Consider the characteristics of each switch and choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Happy typing!
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