Aflion Panda vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique features and experiences are the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Plum. Starting with the Panda, it is best known for Aflion's take on the Holy Pandas, featuring an unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and a profoundly "thocky" sound profile. If you value a keyboard with a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Panda switch might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, we have the Kailh Plum, which offers a different tactile experience. These switches feel quite hefty, but they don't have a huge tactile bump, making them incredibly unique. Unlike many other tactile switches where tactility and weightiness are correlated, the Plum switch provides a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. So, if you prefer a switch with a more mild tactility and a stepped audio feedback, the Plum switch could be a great fit. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Plum, specifically their polycarbonate top housing, offer similar benefits. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Plum switches will provide comparable results in terms of sound quality and visual aesthetics.
Regarding the bottom housing materials, the Panda and the Plum switches employ nylon, which imparts distinct characteristics to the typing experience. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Panda and the Plum switches will deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality, as the nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
It is important to note that the difference in housing materials between the top and bottom housings of a switch will affect the overall sound and feel. The qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials are divided between these two components. When pressing down on the switch, the impact and sound of the bottom housing material will be more noticeable. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key will be influenced by the properties of the top housing material. Thus, while the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Plum switches may have the same or similar housing materials, the distinction between top and bottom housings will still impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Plum is not available. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Panda at 60 grams and the Plum at a slightly heavier 70 grams.
Considering weight, some users may prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force of the Panda could be advantageous in this scenario, allowing for smoother and quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For these individuals, the heavier bottom out force of the Plum switch may provide the desired tactile feedback.
It's important to note that without information on the actuation force of the Plum switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two in terms of actuation. However, if both switches have similar actuation forces, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Panda and Kailh Plum switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Panda being lighter in terms of actuation force and the Plum being slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that the Panda has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Panda's travel distance of 4.0 mm falls into the traditional range, offering a balanced depth that many users are familiar with. On the other hand, the Plum's slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter travel distances are known to provide quicker keystrokes. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and in such cases, the Panda with its longer travel distance may be a more suitable choice for those who prefer a deeper, more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is best known for its resonant sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound with a clean and sharp quality. This creates an immersive auditory experience for the user. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. It offers a moderate sound level that is enjoyable and suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, the Panda provides a resonant and thocky sound, while the Plum offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating. These switches provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They offer pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This creates an invigorating typing sensation for the user. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It has a more gentle feel compared to switches with stronger characteristics. The Plum switch stands in a safe middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable and approachable typing experience. Additionally, the Plum switch is considered stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactility. This provides some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving a mild feel to the keystrokes.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Panda is well-regarded for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, making it suitable for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, the Plum switch stands out for its unique combination of weightiness without a huge tactile bump. It offers a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, appealing to individuals seeking a more gentle typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide satisfying results. However, it is important to consider factors such as typing style, usage environment, and personal preferences when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Panda may be the ideal choice for you. Known for its unparalleled hyper-tactility and thocky sound profile, the Panda offers a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Kailh Plum is worth considering. While it may not have a huge tactile bump, it offers a unique weightiness compared to other tactile switches. Its sound profile is described as neutral and enjoyable.
In terms of sound, the Panda provides a resonant experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, giving you an immersive auditory sensation. In contrast, the Plum offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Panda is characterized as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile experience with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. On the other hand, the Plum offers a mild and approachable typing experience, with a gentle touch suitable for most users. It also has a stepped feel, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel within the keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Plum depends on your personal preferences. If you value hyper-tactility, a thocky sound, and a medium bottom out force, the Panda may be your top pick. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a unique weightiness, a neutral sound profile, and a mild typing experience, the Plum could be the right choice for you. Consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force to make the best decision for your typing needs.
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