Aflion Panda vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the Outemu Tom both fall under the tactile switch category. The Panda, renowned for its Hyper-Tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, offers a unique typing experience that is both invigorating and resonant. On the other hand, the Tom, while lacking specific standout features, still provides a reliable and consistent tactile feedback. If you prefer a switch with an emphasis on hypertactility and a sonorous audio feedback, the Panda may be the perfect choice for you. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share similar qualities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
However, despite these similarities, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Panda and Outemu Tom can lead to differences in sound and feel when typing. The split distribution of housing materials between the top and bottom housings means that the qualities of each material are more pronounced in different aspects of typing. For example, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This subtle difference in housing materials can result in a unique typing experience for each switch, reflecting the importance of housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Overall, the Aflion Panda and Outemu Tom showcase the significance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings, the specific distribution of these materials allows for distinct characteristics in sound and feel. Whether it's the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate or the deep and full sound of nylon, these housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and Outemu Tom may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel based on the unique qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that the Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Tom's 55 grams. The Panda also has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Panda provides a lighter keystroke feel with a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed. Both switches offer a medium level of force overall, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Panda, while those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may lean towards the Tom for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Panda offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press feel compared to the shallower travel distance of the Tom. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom, while those who prefer a more substantial key press experience may opt for the Panda. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the Panda being the longer option and the Tom being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Tom 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 offers a resonant experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. The switch provides a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, yet still offers a satisfying tactile feedback. The typing sensation is described as snappy, reactive, and immersive. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation, resonant sound profile, and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, limited information is available about the Outemu Tom tactile switch, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches. However, based on the qualities of the Panda switch, it can be assumed that users can expect a similar level of tactile feedback and sound profile from the Tom switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for specific qualities such as tactility and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Panda tactile switch or the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and what you value in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep, thocky sound profile, then the Panda may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no bottom out force and different characteristics, you may want to consider the Tom. Remember to also take into account factors such as sound and feel when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch.
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