Aflion Panda vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda and the TTC Silent Frozen. The Panda, known for its tactile experience, offers an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and a deep "thocky" sound profile. It is the go-to choice for those who prioritize a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch, a linear switch, stands out for its extremely quiet sound profile. It not only provides a smooth typing experience but also features a pillowy feel. Characterized by its low-pitched and creamy attributes, the Silent Frozen switch offers a muted and feathery typing experience. Each of these switches has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the TTC Silent Frozen share similar housing materials in their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. As a result, both the Panda and the Silent Frozen will likely provide comparable sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ slightly in terms of material. The Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance. Therefore, while the top housings may provide similar results, the bottom housings of the Panda and the Silent Frozen will yield different sound experiences.
When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing's qualities become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Panda, the nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving a satisfying typing experience. Meanwhile, the Silent Frozen's polycarbonate bottom housing will enhance the sharpness and crispness of the sound. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing's characteristics will have a more significant impact on the sound. Both switches, having polycarbonate top housings, will exhibit a similar effect on the sound when keys are released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Panda has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Frozen's lighter 39 grams. This means that the Panda requires more force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Panda is heavier at 60 grams compared to the Silent Frozen's 43 grams. This suggests that the Panda provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring users to exert more force both to initiate a keystroke and to press all the way down.
However, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium and light force categories respectively, making them suitable for users with different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Silent Frozen appealing, as it allows for a lighter touch and may be more comfortable for typing over extended periods or during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who crave a stronger push feel and enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Panda, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces deliver a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Silent Frozen provide a gentler typing experience, while the heavier forces of the Panda offer a more robust and tactile feel. Whichever switch is selected, users can expect reliable and satisfying keystrokes, tailored to their specific preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional length, while the Silent Frozen has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This slight difference may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. In this case, the Silent Frozen may be the preferred option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the Panda might be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of 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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 known for its hyper-tactile sensation, offering an unparalleled typing experience. It produces a profoundly "thocky" sound profile, which is clean, sharp, and resonant. This switch provides a full-bodied and sonorous audio feedback, setting a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and a deep sound. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile. It produces a thocky sound, similar to a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. It has a low-pitched sound, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. The Silent Frozen is also described as muted, meaning it produces a softer and quieter sound, minimizing typical mechanical keyboard noise. In terms of feel, the Panda switch offers an accented tactile experience that is not overwhelming or subtle. It provides a prominent amount of tactility and an invigorating typing sensation with its pronounced feedback and snappy feel. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch offers a creamy and buttery typing experience. It feels smooth and effortless, with a feathery lightness that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also has a subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined keystroke experience.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Panda switch excels in its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, providing a full-bodied and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch stands out for its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth and buttery feel, and feathery lightness. While they have different qualities, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience. If a user is looking for a tactile switch with a resonant, hyper-tactile sensation and a deep sound, the Panda switch would be the optimal choice. For those seeking a super quiet switch with a creamy and smooth typing experience, the Silent Frozen switch would be the ideal option. Despite their differences, both switches provide a high-quality experience in their respective categories, ensuring satisfying results for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, then the Aflion Panda would be the better choice for you. The Panda's medium bottom out force of 60 grams provides an accented and invigorating feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback and reactive typing experience. Moreover, the Panda's sound profile is described as resonant, offering a clean and sharp sound when typing.
On the other hand, if your main goal is to have an extremely quiet and smooth typing experience, then the TTC Silent Frozen would be the more suitable option. With a light bottom out force of 43 grams, the Silent Frozen offers a creamy, buttery, and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing sensation for extended periods. Additionally, the Silent Frozen's sound profile is described as thocky, low-pitched, and muted, minimizing noise and producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the TTC Silent Frozen depends on your personal preferences for tactility, audio feedback, smoothness, and noise level. Consider what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch and make your decision accordingly.
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