Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are numerous options available on the market. Two popular choices for those seeking a tactile switch are the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Quinn. The Aflion Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, setting a new standard for those who value hypertactility and a sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. With each keystroke, users can expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump, accompanied by a rich, immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. Both switches bring their own distinct qualities to the table, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Quinn, there are clear differences and similarities. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Moving to the bottom housing, both the Panda and the Quinn employ nylon as the material of choice. As stated earlier, nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its ability to absorb more sound due to its softness contributes to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of bottom housing, the Panda and the Quinn offer similar results, both delivering a similar sound experience.
In summary, the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Quinn differ in terms of their top housing materials, with the Panda utilizing polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound, while the Quinn employs nylon for a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound experience. Therefore, users can expect distinct sound profiles between the two switches when it comes to the top housing and comparable results for the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, one noticeable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aflion Panda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams. Similarly, the Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, slightly lighter than the Quinn's 67 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Quinn can be considered medium-heavy compared to the Panda.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Panda might be the preferred choice as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. On the other hand, the Quinn offers a stronger push feel with its heavier forces, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy that feedback.
It's worth mentioning that while the forces of the two switches differ, they both fall within the medium range, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Quinn will depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Quinn has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Quinn the shorter option between the two.
A travel distance of 4 mm is considered to be more traditional, offering a balanced depth that many typists are accustomed to. On the other hand, the Quinn's shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm caters to gamers and those seeking quicker response times. The reduced distance allows for a faster actuation, which can be advantageous in gaming scenarios.
It is important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in deciding which travel distance is ideal. Gamers or individuals prioritizing responsiveness may find the shorter travel distance of the Quinn more suitable. Conversely, for those who appreciate a more substantial feel and enjoy a deeper key press, the Panda's longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual preferences and requirements.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is best known for its "thocky" sound profile. Typing on these switches produces a deep, echoing thock sound that is both satisfying and full-bodied. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of a deep, resonant sound profile thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. The sound is described as bassy, clacky, and low-pitched, creating a rich and immersive auditory experience. While the sound profiles of these switches differ, they both provide an immersive and clean sound that adds character to the typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda switch is described as accented and invigorating. These switches provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, offering a prominent amount of feedback. They also have a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These switches are super responsive and have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. They provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation and offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile qualities that enhance the typing experience, although they differ in their specific characteristics.
Taking all the available information into account, the Aflion Panda and Gateron Quinn tactile switches differ in their sound and feel qualities. The Panda is known for its "thocky" sound profile and an invigorating typing feel, while the Quinn switch provides a deep, resonant sound profile and a snappy and polished typing feel. While each switch offers its own distinct characteristics, both switches promise a satisfying and immersive typing experience. Depending on individual preference, either switch can be a great choice for those seeking tactile feedback and an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium force that provides a satisfactory amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The Panda sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback.
On the other hand, if you prefer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it has a slightly heavier medium-heavy force, offering a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump.
In terms of sound, the Panda provides a resonant experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory sensation. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a range of sound characteristics, including a bassy sound with a lower frequency range, a clacky and bright sound, as well as a resonant experience with clean and sharp tones.
As for the feel, the Panda switch provides an accented switch experience, offering a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It also provides an invigorating sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a range of feel experiences, including a snappy and responsive feel, a polished and smooth typing experience, a bouncy and lively sensation, and an accented switch experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize an unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and a thocky sound profile, go for the Panda. If you prefer a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Quinn switch would be the better option. Consider your desired bottom out force, sound profile, and key feel to make an informed decision.
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