Aflion Panda vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to cater to every typist's unique preferences. Two popular choices in the market are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star RedBlue, a linear switch. The Aflion Panda is renowned for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and profoundly "thocky" sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force accompanied by a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer a medium-light typing experience. These switches are particularly suited for individuals who prefer a slightly higher-pitched sound profile. While these general characteristics may guide your decision, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and SP-Star RedBlue have similar housing materials in terms of the top housing, both featuring polycarbonate. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing on the switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. Consequently, both switches would provide a similar auditory and visual experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Panda utilizes nylon while the RedBlue employs polycarbonate. The Panda's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound quality of the top housing material, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound.
Considering the impact of the housing materials, pressing down on these switches will highlight the qualities of the bottom housing. During the bottom-out sound and feel, the Panda's nylon housing will contribute to a duller and rounder sound, creating a slightly softer typing experience. Conversely, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing will provide a more defined and precise bottom-out sound, aligning with the switch's overall sharper sound profile.
Ultimately, while the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Aflion Panda and SP-Star RedBlue, they both offer their own unique sound characteristics. Choosing between the two would come down to personal preference, with the Panda emphasizing a fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, while the RedBlue focuses on a more precise and resonant sound with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is important to consider the actuation force and bottom out force. The Aflion Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is medium, while the RedBlue's actuation force is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams, which is slightly heavier than the RedBlue's 57 grams, making it medium-light.
Weight is a significant factor to consider when choosing a switch. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This would be ideal for those using a keyboard for work or engaging in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals would benefit from switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Considering the information provided, the Aflion Panda offers a medium actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force, while the SP-Star RedBlue has an unknown actuation force and a medium-light bottom out force. The similarity between the two switches lies in the fact that their actuation forces are not explicitly stated. Overall, the choice of which switch to use depends on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect to get similar results from both switches.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
The Aflion Panda tactile switch is best known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and a profoundly "thocky" sound profile. When typing on the Panda, you can expect a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. This switch offers an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. The feel of the Panda is described as accented, providing a prominent amount of medium tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It offers a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation.
On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. The sound profile of the RedBlue is relatively higher-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to switches with a lower pitch. It is described as a neutral switch, suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda provides a resonant and thocky sound profile, along with an accented and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the RedBlue offers a relatively higher-pitched sound profile with a neutral and thocky characteristic. While they have different sound signatures and tactile experiences, both switches deliver satisfying results for their respective users. It's important to consider personal preferences and factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps to achieve the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, this switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. The Panda switch also produces a resonant sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, this switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The RedBlue switch produces a low-pitched sound, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Overall, choosing between these switches depends on your preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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