Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silent Ocean, a linear switch. The Aflion Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, making it a favorite among those who value a responsive tactile force and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is known for its quiet operation without sacrificing performance. While the Panda offers an invigorating and resonant typing experience, the Silent Ocean provides a smooth and silent 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
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
Partial box
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 Silent Ocean switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this quality in their top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Panda uses nylon for its bottom housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, showcasing a similar sound profile to the Panda when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches offers a clear and translucent appearance, making them suitable for switches with RGB lighting. This allows for a visually appealing experience for users who prefer a more customizable and vibrant setup. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the overall sound profile by adding depth and fullness to the typing experience. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound results in a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the tactile feedback for users.
While both the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches share similarities in their housing materials, such as the polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the distribution of these materials within the switches can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as the deeper sound profile and tactile feedback, will be more prominent during bottom-out keystrokes, while the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to a unique sound profile and typing experience for users to enjoy.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is clear that the Panda has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams while the Silent Ocean needs 65 grams. This makes the Silent Ocean the heavier option between the two. The Panda provides a medium actuation force and bottom out force, while the Silent Ocean falls in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Panda, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Silent Ocean to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results despite their slight differences in actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that you can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress experience from both switches. Whether you choose the Panda or the Silent Ocean, you can rely on a consistent travel distance for your typing needs.
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 Ocean 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 satisfying and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor available. In terms of feel, the Panda offers an accented and invigorating tactile sensation, perfect for those who enjoy a medium tactile switch with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. The Silent Ocean's feel is unknown at this time. Overall, the Aflion Panda is an excellent choice for those seeking a hyper-tactile switch with a deep thocky sound, while the Outemu Silent Ocean remains a bit of a mystery in terms of its subjective qualities. Depending on personal preference, both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, but for those looking for a specific tactile or linear characteristic, the choice may be clear based on the available information.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep "thocky" sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Panda provides a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and is known for its unparalleled tactility and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile when choosing between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
