Aflion Panda vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Panda and the TKC Tangerine switch. The Panda switch is widely recognized for its exceptional tactile sensation and "thocky" sound profile. With its hyper-tactile force and resonant audio feedback, it sets a new standard for those who value a richly tactile experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch is beloved for its remarkable smoothness, elevating the typing experience to new heights. The use of UHWMPE housings, a rare feature in bespoke mechanical switches, contributes to its frictionless and buttery feel. Although both switches offer unique advantages, it's essential to delve deeper beyond these generalities to choose the switch that best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the TKC Tangerine differ in their composition, leading to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when compared to the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent property of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. In contrast, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a very bright sound signature, creating resonant clacks while typing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Panda employs a nylon material known for its deep and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This enhances the typing experience by providing a satisfying acoustic response. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing features a newer material with a very bright sound signature. This contributes to resonant clacks that are distinct and unique when typing on switches with such housings.
Although the Aflion Panda and TKC Tangerine have different top and bottom housing materials, it's essential to consider how each material affects the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the difference in nylon and UHWMPE housing materials will shape the tactile experience and audible feedback when pressing down keys. Conversely, the impact of the top housing material is felt when releasing a key, contributing to the sound produced. While the materials may differ, both switches offer distinct characteristics that enhance the typing experience in their own unique way.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Aflion Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a medium level of resistance to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the TKC Tangerine switch is not specified. However, both switches have a bottom out force in the medium range, with the Aflion Panda requiring 60 grams and the TKC Tangerine requiring 62 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to type for extended periods, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. In this case, the Aflion Panda could be a favorable choice due to its slightly lower bottom out force. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier force. In this regard, the TKC Tangerine, with its unspecified actuation force and slightly higher bottom out force, might offer a better option. Overall, while the actuation forces differ between the two switches, the bottom out forces are quite similar, allowing for comparable results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear 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 distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect 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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 per 10 switches.
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 unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile. When typing on the Panda, users can expect a resonant, higher-pitched sound that provides an immersive auditory experience. This switch offers a full-bodied and sonorous audio feedback, setting a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and a resonant sound profile.
On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is praised for its incredibly smooth feel, making every keystroke a pleasure to type. This smoothness is attributed to the UHWMPE housings, which is a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. When typing on the Tangerine, users will experience a fairly high-pitched clack. The Tangerine provides a clean and crisp sound profile for those who prefer a higher-pitched switch.
Overall, the subjective qualities of these two switches differ in both sound and feel. The Panda offers a resonant sound profile and an invigorating typing sensation with its medium tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Tangerine provides a high-pitched sound and a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. Both switches have their unique appeal and can elevate the typing experience for different preferences.
If you are looking for a switch with similar results to the Panda, the Tangerine might not provide the exact experience due to its linear nature. However, it does offer a smooth feel that can be enjoyable in its own right. Similarly, if you are seeking a switch similar to the Tangerine, the Panda may not offer the desired smoothness, but it does provide a highly tactile experience with a resonant sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch comes down to personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize hyper-tactility and a thocky sound profile or an incredibly smooth feel and high-pitched clack. Both switches have their own merits and can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep "thocky" sound profile, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback that sets a new gold standard for those who prioritize hypertactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience, then the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams and UHWMPE housings, it provides an incredibly smooth feel that enhances each keystroke. Additionally, while the Panda has a resonant sound profile, the Tangerine offers a higher-pitched clack when typing. In terms of feel, the Panda is described as accented and invigorating, providing a prominent amount of tactility without overwhelming subtlety. Conversely, the Tangerine is frictionless, buttery, and polished, offering a seamless and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the TKC Tangerine boils down to whether you prioritize hyper-tactility and a thocky sound profile or a smooth and effortless typing experience.
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