Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Type S, a linear switch, it is evident that they both offer unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, making it ideal for individuals who value hypertactility and a rich auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Type S stands out for its factory-lubed linear feel and pleasingly balanced sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a weightier keystroke experience. While the Panda is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', the Type S is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Gateron Type S both utilize nylon material for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when utilizing either of these switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Aflion Panda features a polycarbonate material while the Gateron Type S utilizes nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Panda creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it more resonant. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Type S elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast highlights the impact that different housing materials can have on the sound produced by a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Type S will depend on personal preference for sound profile when typing. The use of polycarbonate in the Panda's top housing will result in a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Type S's nylon top housing will offer a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches, however, share the same nylon material for their bottom housings, ensuring a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing on either switch.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams, while the Type S requires 65 grams, making the Type S slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balanced typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Panda for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the slightly heavier Type S for added feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Type S 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 traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, the travel distance of both switches is equal, making them both excellent options for a smooth and responsive typing 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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 resonant and thocky sound profile, providing a high-pitched and immersive auditory experience for users seeking a deep acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound signature, ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying key press sound. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will come down to individual user preferences, with the Panda offering a more pronounced and resonant sound, while the Type S provides a more understated and neutral typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is praised for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that strikes a balance between overwhelming and subtle, providing users with a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S switch is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of tactile feedback. Ultimately, the feel preference between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences, with the Panda offering a more pronounced and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that appeal to different types of keyboard enthusiasts. The Panda excels in providing a hyper-tactile sensation and a thocky sound profile, while the Type S focuses on a weightier keystroke and a balanced sound signature. Depending on whether a user prioritizes a deeply tactile typing experience or a more muted and neutral sound profile, one can find a suitable switch that aligns with their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that provides a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, then the Gateron Type S linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of tactile feel and sound profile. Whether you value the hyper-tactility of the Panda or the weightier keystroke of the Type S, both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different typing preferences.
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