Aflion Panda vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Panda and the Jwick Taro, both of which are tactile switches. The Aflion Panda is renowned for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation, providing users with a satisfying and responsive typing experience. Additionally, it offers a deep thocky sound profile, adding to the overall sensory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro boasts a comfortable and subdued color scheme, which translates into a cozy typing experience. This switch offers a medium-level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. While these generalities give us insights into the unique qualities of each switch, diving deeper into their specific attributes will allow you to make an informed decision regarding which switch is best suited to your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and Jwick Taro have similar housing materials when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Panda or Taro switch with polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the housing materials differ when it comes to the nylon bottom housing of the Panda and Taro switches. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, but this material brings its own set of characteristics to the typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastic housings. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can expect a distinct typing experience with the Panda and Taro switches due to their different bottom housing materials.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housing of these switches. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though the Panda and Taro switches may have similar or different housing materials, the typing experience and resulting sound can still vary based on the specific combination of top and bottom housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we find that the Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls in the medium range. On the other hand, the Taro's actuation force is not provided, but its bottom out force is 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Panda at medium-heavy. This means that while both switches have similar forces required for bottoming out, the Taro may require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Panda. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Panda may be the better choice, as its actuation force is known to be lighter. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing feel, the Taro with its slightly heavier bottom out force can provide a more satisfying experience. It is worth noting that without the information on the Taro's actuation force, we cannot accurately compare the ease of triggering a keystroke between the two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the Panda has a longer travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Taro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7mm. The Panda's 4.0mm travel distance is within the range of the traditional travel distance, providing a more familiar experience for users. On the other hand, the Taro's 3.7mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower feel. Gamers, especially, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Taro a potentially suitable choice for this demographic. However, individuals who appreciate a deeper key press may find the Panda's longer travel distance more satisfying. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Panda offering a traditional and deeper feel, while the Taro provides a slightly shallower and potentially more responsive experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a distinct travel distance that may cater to different user preferences.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 resonant qualities. Typing on a Panda switch will produce a higher-pitched sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, giving a satisfying thocky echo. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound with acute and crisp clacks. The Taro switch is suitable for various purposes and is neither too distracting nor too subtle. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as accented. It provides a medium-level of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. The tactile feedback is prominent, creating an invigorating typing sensation. These switches have a moderate to firm actuation force and offer a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery in feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Typing on these switches feels effortless and uniform. Additionally, the Taro switch can be considered stepped, meaning it has two stages - some pre-travel and/or post-travel can be felt during the keystroke.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Panda and Jwick Taro tactile switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Panda switch offers a hyper-tactile sensation, a deep thocky sound, and an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro switch provides a cozy typing experience, with medium-level tactility, acute clacks, and a buttery feel. Both switches have their own strengths and are suitable for different preferences. However, if you are looking for a similar tactile experience, you can expect a similar level of tactility and feedback from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and Jwick Taro tactile switches depends on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the best choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium level of resistance. The Panda switches are known for their unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. They offer an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility and acute, crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy level of resistance. The Taro switches have a comfortable subdued color scheme and provide a moderate level of tactility. They are described as buttery switches, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
When it comes to sound, the Panda switches produce a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Taro switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and environments.
In terms of feel, the Panda switches are accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. They offer an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the Taro switches are buttery and provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing experience. They have a stepped feel, with a mild tactile bump and noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value hyper-tactility and a thocky sound profile, go for the Pandas. If you prefer a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility and acute clacks, choose the Taros. Both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience, so it's up to you to decide which features are most important to you.
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