Aflion Panda vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, a linear switch, each offer unique characteristics to consider. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it a top choice for those seeking a responsive tactile force and rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and pleasing tactile experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences; 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we can see that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This means that both switches will likely have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. However, the top housing of the Panda is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when using RGB lighting. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro's top housing is also made of nylon, which produces a duller and rounder sound profile.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Panda features polycarbonate, which is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. This contrast with the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The difference in top housing material between the two switches will likely result in a noticeable variation in the overall sound experience when pressing and releasing the keys. Additionally, the aesthetics of the switches will differ, with the Panda's polycarbonate top housing allowing for more customization with RGB lighting compared to the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing.
It is important to note that the housing material of a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing on the keyboard. While both the Aflion Panda and the Akko V3 Piano Pro share a bottom housing made of nylon, their top housing materials differ, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in top housing material highlights the importance of considering the housing materials when choosing a keyboard switch for a specific typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium level bottom out force, with the Panda requiring 60 grams and the V3 Piano Pro needing 55 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro may be the better option due to its slightly lower actuation force. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Panda may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Panda offers a slightly deeper press compared to the V3 Piano Pro. Gamers may prefer the Panda for its longer travel distance, which provides a more satisfying key press with added depth. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time and a more shallow key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 the sound of the two switches, the Aflion Panda offers a resonant and thocky experience, with a deep and full-bodied sound profile that is sure to please those who enjoy a more immersive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro provides a clacky and snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, providing users with a unique auditory experience based on their personal preferences and typing style.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Panda is described as having an invigorating and accented tactile feel, providing a pronounced feedback and firm actuation force that creates a satisfying typing sensation. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth typing experience that allows for effortless keystrokes. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Panda focusing on a more tactile and responsive feel, while the Piano Pro emphasizes a smoother and more buttery typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile, the Piano Pro shines with its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation. Depending on whether you prefer a more tactile or linear typing experience, both switches provide exceptional performance and a satisfying typing experience that will enhance your overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that you'll get equally satisfying results regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep, thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the way to go. The Panda provides a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback that sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch might be more up your alley. The Piano Pro switches are known for their lively, crisp quality in each keystroke, along with a pleasing tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize hyper-tactility and a "thocky" sound profile or a snappy sound signature and smooth actuation in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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