Aflion Panda vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are worth considering are the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Duck, both of which are tactile switches. The Aflion Panda is known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and profoundly "thocky" sound profile. It sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and enjoy a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. It provides a gentle tactility while typing and has a clean and crispy sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a more accentuated and satisfying tactile feel, the Aflion Panda might be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and less pronounced tactile experience, the SP-Star Duck could be the perfect fit. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Duck, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting effects from both the Panda and the Duck keyboards due to their common use of polycarbonate top housings.
However, a notable difference can be found in the bottom housings of these keyboards. The Panda incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Duck features a polycarbonate one. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Duck keyboard aligns with its top housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance in the switch's sound. Therefore, users can anticipate a different typing experience and sound quality when comparing the bottom housings of the Panda and the Duck.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play differing roles. While the bottom housing influences the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing the key. Therefore, despite the variations in their bottom housings, both the Panda and the Duck will offer a similar experience in terms of the sound and feel upon key release, thanks to their shared polycarbonate top housings. However, users can expect notable differences in the sound and feel when pressing down on the keys due to the contrasting qualities of nylon and polycarbonate in the respective bottom housings of the Panda and the Duck keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the two switches have similar characteristics. The actuation force of the Panda switch is 50 grams, while the Duck switch's actuation force is not available. However, given that both switches are categorized as medium, it can be assumed that they may have similar actuation forces.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Panda switch requires 60 grams of force to bottom out, whereas the Duck switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams. Therefore, it can be observed that the Panda switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Duck switch.
Considering the weight of the switches, lighter switches are preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. This makes them suitable for keyboards used at work or during gaming marathons. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. While the actuation forces of the Panda and Duck switches may be similar, the difference in bottom out forces suggests that the Panda switch provides a slightly heavier push feel compared to the Duck switch.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Duck switch is not known, its bottom out force of 58 grams makes it slightly lighter than the Panda switch, which requires 60 grams to bottom out. Both switches offer a medium typing experience, making them viable options for those who prefer a balance between a light and heavy typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel. The distance from the top to the bottom of the switch remains consistent, providing a similar tactile feedback experience for the users. Whether you choose the Panda or the Duck, you can expect to have equal results in terms of travel distance.
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 Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers a resonant experience. Typing on these switches provides a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp quality. The auditory experience is immersive and satisfying. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes, making it suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. It is worth noting 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 offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, creating a medium tactile switch feel. These switches offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The typing sensation is immersive and satisfying. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a milder typing experience. Its characteristics fall in a safe middle-ground zone, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The overall feel of the Duck switch is approachable and polished.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and "thocky" sound profile. It offers a super responsive tactile force paired with a deep thocky echo, setting a new gold standard for those who seek hypertactility and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. While both switches offer different qualities, it is ultimately a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a more immersive and pronounced tactile experience with resonant sound, the Panda switch would be an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder and more approachable typing experience with a neutral sound, the Duck switch would be a great option. Overall, with either switch, you can expect a quality tactile typing experience that meets your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied sound profile, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda offers an unparalleled tactile force paired with a deep thocky echo, setting a new gold standard in tactile keyboard switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, then the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the one for you. With a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams, the Duck provides a gentle tactility that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work, the neutral sound profile of the Duck makes it suitable for most intents and purposes. Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics and offer a satisfying typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when deciding between the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Duck tactile switches.
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