Aflion Panda vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gazzew U4 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 Gazzew U4. The Panda is renowned for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation, delivering a remarkable tactile force and a deep, satisfying "thocky" sound profile. On the other hand, the U4 offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while providing an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Its whisper-quiet sound profile adds a touch of subtlety. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Gazzew U4 use different materials for their top housings. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing made of "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials contribute to the overall sound of the switch, polycarbonate offers a sharper sound while the Gazzew blend provides a deeper tone.
In terms of bottom housings, the Panda incorporates a nylon material. Typing on switches that feature nylon bottom housings offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic compared to harder plastics, which allows it to absorb more sound. Consequently, this creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Panda. Similarly, the Gazzew U4 also utilizes the proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing. This "boba plastic" delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both the nylon and Gazzew blend bottom housings contribute to the overall sound of the switches, but the nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound while the Gazzew blend adds richness.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gazzew U4 differ, they both share similarities. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing and the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing both contribute to the sound profile when you release a key. The polycarbonate's stiffness and the Gazzew blend's softness both create distinct sound characteristics when the switch returns to its resting position. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Panda and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 both absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. While the nylon provides a duller and rounder sound, the Gazzew blend delivers a rich and deep tone. Therefore, although the materials may be different, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Both switches have a medium level of actuation force, with the Aflion Panda requiring 50 grams and the Gazzew U4 requiring 43 grams. This means that both switches would provide a similar level of sensitivity when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, in terms of bottom out force, there is a slight variation. The Aflion Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gazzew U4 has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This indicates that the Gazzew U4 provides a slightly heavier typing experience when it comes to fully pressing down on the keys.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, such as the Gazzew U4, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This lighter actuation force could be beneficial for those who use their keyboard extensively for work or for extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are individuals who enjoy a more substantial and stronger push feel when typing. For them, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Aflion Panda may be more suited to their preference.
Overall, while both the Aflion Panda and the Gazzew U4 have a medium actuation force, the Gazzew U4 is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Aflion Panda provides a slightly heavier bottom out force. These differences in weight can cater to the preferences of different individuals, depending on whether they prioritize a lighter typing experience or a more substantial keystroke.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is found that the Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Panda's travel distance of 4 mm falls within the realm of the most traditional travel distance, which is commonly found in many switches. On the other hand, the U4 with its 3.6 mm travel distance is a bit shallower, making it more suitable for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. If you are looking for a more responsive typing experience, the U4 would be a suitable choice. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances can sometimes feel too abrupt for some individuals. For those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying typing feel, the Panda with its 4 mm travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and requirements for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 widely recognized for its exceptional tactility and deep, "thocky" sound profile. Typing on the Panda switch offers a hyper-tactile sensation, providing a super responsive tactile force that sets a new standard for those who prioritize tactile feedback. Additionally, the Panda switch produces a resonant sound that is clean, sharp, and immersive, delivering an auditory experience like no other.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a different tactile experience. This switch is known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, giving typists an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4 switch provides a firm actuation force and a snappy, reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing experience. In terms of sound, the U4 switch has a muted profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The sound is low-pitched, adding a bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing experience.
Comparing the two switches, the Panda switch stands out for its hypertactility and the full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback it provides. The U4 switch, on the other hand, offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a whisper-quiet sound profile. While they offer different qualities in terms of tactility and sound, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences, you can achieve similar results with either switch, considering that the sound and feel are also influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a super responsive tactile force, along with a deep thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Panda tactile switch is a great choice for you. The Panda offers an unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and a sonorous audio feedback that sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, as well as a plush felt-like bottom-out sensation, then the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the one for you. The U4s have a whisper quiet sound profile and provide a distinct and intense tactile feedback with each keypress. Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Panda and the Gazzew U4 will depend on whether you prioritize a deep thocky sound and an invigorating typing sensation (Panda) or a muted sound and a sharp tactile bump (U4).
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