Aflion Panda vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda and the Gazzew U4T. The Aflion Panda is widely recognized for its unparalleled tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. With its hyper-tactile force and resonant audio feedback, it sets a new standard for those who value a heightened tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. Each keystroke provides both an assertive tactile feedback and a bassy "thock" sound, delivering a satisfying sensory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gazzew U4T switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which produces a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile, owing to its softness. Although the materials differ, both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Panda's polycarbonate creating a sharper tone, and the U4T's Gazzew blend producing a more rounded and deep sound.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Panda and the U4T also vary in composition and sound characteristics. The Panda employs a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the U4T employs its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Panda's nylon producing a deeper tone and the U4T's Gazzew blend offering a similarly rich and deep sound.
When considering the overall sound experience of the switches, it's important to note the impact of each housing material. The bottom housing material has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing material is more prevalent in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on which part of the switch is being emphasized, the qualities of either the top or bottom housing will be more apparent. Despite these differences, both the Panda and the U4T offer unique sound profiles due to their respective housing materials, providing users with a range of options depending on their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Panda is lighter with an actuation force of 50 grams, while the U4T does not provide information on its actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Panda having a force of 60 grams and the U4T having a slightly higher force of 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Panda would be suitable as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may become a factor. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the U4T as it has a slightly heavier bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of solidity during typing.
It is important to note that while the actuation and bottom out forces are provided for the Panda, the exact actuation force for the U4T is unavailable. However, with a known bottom out force that is higher than the Panda, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Panda offering a lighter feel and the U4T providing a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar tactile experience 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 Gazzew U4T 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda switch is best known for its resonant and thocky sound profile. When typing on a Panda switch, you can expect a clean and sharp, yet deep and full-bodied auditory experience. The sound is characterized by a higher-pitched tone with a satisfying thud or knock. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. The sound is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Each keypress on the U4T switch provides auditory satisfaction with a prominent tactile feedback. While the Panda and U4T switches have different sound profiles, both offer a satisfying and immersive experience, depending on your preference and the other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda switch is described as accented and invigorating. An accented switch provides a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Panda switch offers a pronounced amount of feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. It provides a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch is described as sharp and tactile. The U4T switch has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. It offers a high intensity of feedback, ensuring a satisfying tactile experience. The Panda and U4T switches offer different levels and types of tactility, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a medium or sharp tactile sensation.
Taking into account all the available information, the Aflion Panda and Gazzew U4T switches have their own distinct qualities. The Panda switch stands out with its unparalleled hyper-tactility and profound "thocky" sound profile. It provides an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a medium level of tactility. On the other hand, the U4T switch offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. It has a bassy sound profile and a high intensity of tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for sound and feel. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience and are highly regarded within the mechanical keyboard community. If you are looking for a similar result in terms of sound and feel, either switch can deliver an immersive and enjoyable typing experience depending on your personal selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Panda at 60 grams and the U4T at 62 grams, making them both medium weight switches.
The Panda is best known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the U4T embodies a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. It offers a bassy "thock" sound profile paired with assertive tactile feedback.
In terms of sound, the Panda has a resonant characteristic, resulting in a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience. The U4T, on the other hand, provides a deeper and richer sound profile due to its bassy nature. It offers a satisfying "thock" sound when pressed and released.
When it comes to feel, the Panda is described as accented and invigorating. It provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The U4T, on the other hand, is known for its sharp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences. If you value hyper-tactility, a full-bodied sound profile, and a medium amount of tactility, the Panda may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a harmonious fusion of thockiness, sharp tactility, and a bassy sound profile, the U4T might be the better choice. Consider your desired typing experience and the specific characteristics that appeal to you the most in order to make an informed decision.
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