Aflion Panda vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are many options to choose from. Two popular choices are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the KTT Peach, a linear switch. The Panda is known for its unparalleled tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile. It provides a hyper-tactile experience and a sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Peach offers a smooth typing experience and a deep thocky sound. It promises a syrupy smooth feel and is categorized as low-pitched and mild. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them desirable, however, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the KTT Peach, specifically their polycarbonate top housing, share similar qualities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, allowing for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences from both the Aflion Panda and KTT Peach switches due to their identical polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Panda and the Peach switches use nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Consequently, users can anticipate a similar typing experience from both the Aflion Panda and KTT Peach switches due to their utilization of the nylon bottom housing. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will stem from the qualities of the bottom housing, ensuring consistency in the typing experience.
It is important to note that when housing materials differ for a switch, the characteristics associated with each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be felt when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows for a nuanced typing experience where different aspects of sound and feel can be attributed to the top and bottom housing, providing users with a varied and customizable typing sensation.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Aflion Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the KTT Peach requires slightly less at 45 grams. Both switches fall under the medium range in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Aflion Panda requires a heavier 60 grams compared to the KTT Peach's lighter 53 grams. This means that while both switches offer a similar actuation force, the Aflion Panda provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the KTT Peach would be a better option. It is worth noting that both switches offer a relatively medium actuation force and can provide a comfortable typing experience for extended periods of time.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile response or smooth linear feel, depending on which one you prefer. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect comparable results from both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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
The Aflion Panda tactile switch is known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and a profoundly "thocky" sound profile. When typing on the Panda, you can expect a resonant sound that is clean and sharp, creating an immersive auditory experience. This switch offers an invigorating feel, with pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. It is an accented switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Panda sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback.
On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch offers a different experience. It is best known for its syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. The sound of the Peach switches is described as low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The feel of the Peach switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. With the Peach switches, the sound and feel will be approachable to most, as its qualities all stand in a safe, middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Panda provides a resonant sound profile with a hyper-tactile feel that is invigorating and accented. On the other hand, the Peach offers a low-pitched sound profile with a mild and gentle typing experience. Both switches have a deep, thocky sound profile. Whether you prefer the hyper-tactile and resonant experience of the Panda or the smooth and mild typing experience of the Peach, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Depending on your preference, desired typing experience, and the sound profile you prefer, you can choose between these switches with confidence that you will get the desired results.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you prioritize a super responsive tactile force and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the best choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda offers unparalleled hypersensitivity and a sonorous audio feedback that sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach linear switch would be more suitable. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, the Peach provides a mellow tone and a neutral typing experience that would be suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced, or planning to use the switches at home or work. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Panda and KTT Peach comes down to your preference for tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
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