Aflion Panda vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

The Aflion Panda and the Kailh Sage are two mechanical keyboard switches that provide different typing experiences. The Panda, a tactile switch, is widely recognized for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. It sets a new gold standard for those who prioritize hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Sage, a clicky switch, offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness. It is known for its heavy weight and invigorating typing feel. While both switches have their unique characteristics, let's dive deeper into their specific features and traits so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Panda Tactile

Kailh Sage Clicky

$5.20

$3.56 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Aflion Panda and the Kailh Sage share similar housing materials, namely polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing as it creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Similarly, both switches make use of nylon in the bottom housing to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

However, despite these similarities in housing materials, the Panda and Sage may still offer different experiences due to variations in design and construction. When typing on the Panda, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will primarily be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the polycarbonate top housing. As for the Sage, the same principle applies, with the nylon bottom housing playing a significant role in the typing experience while the polycarbonate top housing affects the sound upon key release.

In summary, although the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Kailh Sage are similar, there may still be subtle differences in their overall performance. Both switches benefit from the unique characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon, resulting in distinct sound profiles. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, these housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Sage's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a medium actuation force, providing a satisfying tactile response without being too heavy or too light. On the other hand, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams of force, whereas the Sage is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.

Considering weight, lighter switches like the Panda are favored by those who wish to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for work keyboards or long gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who prefer a more robust typing experience often opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Sage's slightly higher bottom out force could provide a more substantial push feel while typing.

While the actuation forces of both switches are similar, the difference in bottom out force causes a distinction in their typing experiences. The choice between the two ultimately lies in personal preference, whether one prefers a slightly heavier or lighter switch. However, it is worth noting that both switches offer a satisfying feel and performance within the medium range of actuation forces, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Panda has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances. The Panda's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a hearty depth to their typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm appeals to gamers and individuals seeking faster response times, as the shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - those desiring a more responsive and swift typing experience may opt for the Sage, while those who appreciate a deeper and more satisfying keystroke may favor the Panda. In either case, both switches offer reliable performance and can deliver similar results in terms of functionality.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers a resonant sound profile that is clean, sharp, and higher-pitched. This creates an immersive auditory experience for the typist, with a deep thocky echo that is highly satisfying. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. These clicky switches offer a sharp and refreshing clickiness that adds an extra layer of feedback during typing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.

When it comes to feel, both the Panda and Sage switches offer an invigorating typing sensation. The Panda switch is described as an accented switch, providing a medium tactile experience that is not overpowering but still noticeable. It offers a pronounced amount of tactility that strikes a balance between subtlety and intensity. Additionally, the Panda switch is invigorating, giving a snappy and reactive feel with moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, the Sage switch is also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Its sharp tactile bump is prominent and distinctly noticeable with every keypress.

In summary, the Aflion Panda and Kailh Sage switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Panda switch is best known for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, while the Sage switch stands out for its distinct clicky typing experience. Both switches offer an invigorating feel, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive typing experience. While the sound and feel of a switch are subjective experiences and can vary based on personal preference, these switches are designed to cater to different typists' needs. Ultimately, it is crucial to consider individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and the overall typing experience when choosing between the Aflion Panda and Kailh Sage switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering the choice between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation with a profound "thocky" sound profile, the Panda switch would be the best option. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback that sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier feel, the Sage switch would be more suitable. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a refreshingly sharp clickiness that can be invigorating for typing. Sound-wise, the Panda switch offers a resonant and clean sound profile, while the Sage switch creates a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of leaves. In terms of feel, the Panda switch is accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Similarly, the Sage switch is also invigorating but has a sharp and high feedback intensity. Ultimately, it is important to consider your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel when making a decision between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Panda Tactile

$5.20

$3.56 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more