Aflion Panda vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the KTT Purple Star offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Aflion Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it a top choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback and audio satisfaction. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience and light 45g bottom-out, appealing to those who prefer a more subtle and easy-to-press switch. Both switches have their distinct advantages and characteristics that can enhance your typing experience; 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the KTT Purple Star, the differences are quite apparent. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, whereas POM does not offer this feature. Meanwhile, the Panda's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, in contrast to the Purple Star's POM bottom housing, which also creates a deep and muted sound profile.
However, despite the differences in housing materials, both the Aflion Panda and the KTT Purple Star offer unique and pleasing sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the Panda's top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, while the POM top housing of the Purple Star delivers a more subdued sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Panda and the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star both contribute to a deeper sound profile, albeit with slightly different characteristics. Ultimately, while the specific qualities of each housing material may vary, both keyboards offer a distinctive typing experience that appeals to different preferences.
Ultimately, when considering the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the KTT Purple Star, it is important to note how each material impacts the overall sound and feel of the keyboard. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Panda creates a sharper sound when compared to the more muted POM top housing of the Purple Star. On the other hand, the softer nylon bottom housing of the Panda leads to a fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star also contributes to a deeper sound profile. Despite these differences, both keyboards are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of each keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Panda requires a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Purple Star. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provide a medium level of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Star has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a smoother and lighter typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may gravitate towards the Purple Star, while individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Panda. Both switches offer different weights that cater to the preferences of users, with the Panda being slightly heavier and the Purple Star being lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch. The Panda offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Purple Star provides a slightly shorter option. Gamers may prefer the Purple Star for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Panda with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 offers a resonant and clean thocky sound profile, providing a high-pitched and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch produces a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a neutral sound signature that is gentle on the ears. Both switches excel in delivering unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Panda offering a more pronounced and sharp sound while the Purple Star focusing on a smoother and mellow auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming yet still offers a significant amount of feedback. This switch offers a firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive typing sensation that is sure to engage the user. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is characterized as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses. The light actuation force of the Purple Star switch makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Panda excels in providing a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep and resonant thocky sound, the Purple Star offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral and mellow sound signature. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a highly tactile typing experience with a resonant sound (Panda) or a smoother typing experience with a neutral sound profile (Purple Star).
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and habits. If you value a highly tactile typing experience with a deep "thocky" sound profile and medium bottom-out force, the Aflion Panda switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature, the KTT Purple Star switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize hyper-tactility and a sonorous audio feedback or a buttery smooth and comfortable typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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