Aflion Panda vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Aflion Panda and the TTC Silent Brown. The Aflion Panda is renowned for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. This switch is perfect for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. One of its standout features is the muted sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide which switch is best suited to your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the TTC Silent Brown share a common feature in their polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound profile. Both switches benefit from polycarbonate's translucency, making them suitable for use with RGB lighting. However, since the top housing is responsible for the sound when releasing a key, the Panda and Silent Brown may produce slightly different sound profiles even though they share the same material.
While the polycarbonate top housing is the same for both switches, they differ in their nylon bottom housing. The Panda's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, again due to its softer composition. These differences in sound are noticeable when pressing down on the switch, as the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
Due to the contrasting housing materials utilized in the Aflion Panda and the TTC Silent Brown, their overall sound profiles may vary. The top housing, made of polycarbonate, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound in both switches. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing brings distinct qualities to each switch. The Panda offers a deeper and fuller sound due to the softness and sound-absorbing properties of nylon. In contrast, the Silent Brown provides a duller and rounder sound through its use of nylon. These differences create unique typing experiences and allow individuals to choose according to their preferred sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, one can observe several differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Panda switch is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Silent Brown switch is slightly lighter at 45 grams. This means that the Silent Brown requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke, making it a favorable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience.
In terms of bottom out force, the Panda switch has a force of 60 grams, whereas the Silent Brown switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This indicates that the Silent Brown provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires slightly more force to press all the way down. Therefore, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Silent Brown switch.
Considering the weight aspect, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. However, the Aflion Panda can be regarded as slightly lighter due to its lower actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more robust typing experience, appealing to those who desire a more substantial feel while typing.
In summary, while the Aflion Panda and TTC Silent Brown switches share similarities in terms of medium actuation forces, their bottom out forces differ slightly. The Panda is lighter overall, providing a more comfortable typing experience for longer durations, while the Silent Brown offers a heavier feel, delivering a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback when pressed, but the Panda offers a slightly deeper travel distance. This may be preferred by individuals who prefer a more substantial key press and do not mind sacrificing a bit of speed. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch's shorter travel distance may be appealing to gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 profound "thocky" sound profile. Typing on a Panda switch produces a resonant and immersive auditory experience, with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch provides a hyper-tactile sensation. It is described as an accented switch, meaning it offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. This switch provides pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump. It is described as a buttery, mild, and polished switch. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, a gentle typing sensation, and reduced friction with smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Panda and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches offer contrasting qualities. The Panda excels in its "thocky" sound profile and hyper-tactile feel, providing a full-bodied audio feedback and an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches prioritize a muted sound profile and a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Although they differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches provide desirable qualities based on individual preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a similar sound profile and feel to the Panda or Silent Brown switches, it is recommended to explore other options with comparable characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Panda tactile switch could be a great choice for you. It offers an unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and a deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. Additionally, the Panda switch has a resonant sound profile, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, it is described as an accented and invigorating switch, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch may be more suitable. This switch provides a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. The Silent Brown switch is also known for its muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience. In terms of feel, it is described as buttery, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Panda and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches depends on your preferences. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation, deep thocky sound, and resonant auditory experience, the Panda switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a slightly heavier resistance, a satisfying rounded tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown switch would be a better fit. Consider these factors to find the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
