Aflion Panda vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and Sarokeys Purple Sakura are two popular choices in the tactile category. The Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep, thocky sound profile, setting a new standard for those who value intense tactility and rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of pronounced tactility without being overpowering. While the Panda is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', the Purple Sakura is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy'. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches results in a more clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. While both switches may have similar sound profiles due to their shared top housing material, their overall aesthetic appeal may differ based on design and color variations.
On the other hand, the Panda and Purple Sakura differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Panda featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Purple Sakura utilizing the same material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, as it is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a distinct typing experience for each switch, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced more by the characteristics of the bottom housing.
In summary, while both the Aflion Panda and Sarokeys Purple Sakura share the same polycarbonate top housing material, they differentiate themselves in their choice of bottom housing material. The Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience. The combination of these housing materials results in unique sound profiles and typing experiences for each switch, showcasing the importance of housing materials in switch design and performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and fully press the switch down. In terms of weight, both switches are considered medium in terms of actuation and bottom out force. This makes them versatile options for users who prefer a balance between a light and heavy typing experience. Users who enjoy a lighter actuation force may find these switches suitable for long typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may still find them comfortable due to the medium weight of the switches. Ultimately, both the Aflion Panda and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer a consistent and reliable typing experience with their balanced actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional and standard distance. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Purple Sakura with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Panda with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 switch offers a resonant and sharp auditory experience, providing a clean and immersive typing sound. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch has a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments and preferences. With the Panda delivering a thocky echo and the Purple Sakura offering a mild and neutral sound signature, users can choose the switch that best fits their desired audio feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium level of tactility with pronounced feedback and a reactive typing sensation. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience, ensuring a smooth and gentle actuation with a responsive feel. While the Panda emphasizes a hyper-tactile force, the Purple Sakura strikes a delicate balance between tactility and smoothness, catering to users who prefer a more subtle yet engaging typing feel.
Overall, the Aflion Panda and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in delivering a hyper-tactile sensation with a thocky sound profile, appealing to users who value a full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a balance between tactility and smoothness for a satisfying typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the Panda for a more pronounced and resonant typing experience or the Purple Sakura for a more neutral and balanced tactile feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Panda tactile switch or the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactile sensation and sound profile. If you value a hyper-tactile experience with a deep thocky sound, the Panda may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy response with a buttery downstroke and a mild, neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura could be a better fit. Consider how each switch's characteristics align with your typing preferences and environment, and make your decision based on what will enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Panda and the Purple Sakura boils down to personal preference in terms of tactile feel and sound profile.
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