Aflion Panda vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. Both switches offer unique features and benefits that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Aflion Panda is widely recognized for its sensational tactility and deep thocky sound profile. This switch provides an unparalleled tactile force that appeals to those who value a highly responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear is celebrated for its smooth linear action and high-pitched typing sensation. It boasts a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for extensive RGB lighting customization. With a lightly lubed POM stem, this switch ensures minimal friction and an impressively smooth keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your personal preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, resulting in clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Thus, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both the Panda and the Aurora Clear due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Panda features nylon while the Aurora Clear incorporates UHWMPE. Nylon, a classic switch housing material, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Conversely, UHWMPE is a newer material known for its bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks while typing. These contrasting characteristics in the bottom housing highlight the role it plays in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In summary, while the Panda and the Aurora Clear share the benefits of having polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housings differ in material and consequently affect the sound produced. The Panda's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to a brighter and more resonant sound. Therefore, users can expect a variance in the sound experience provided by these switches depending on the chosen model.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Panda is 50 grams, while the WS Aurora Clear requires slightly more at 53 grams. Both fall under the category of medium force, meaning they provide a balanced touch for typing or gaming. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Panda is 60 grams, only slightly lighter than the WS Aurora Clear's 63.5 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy.
Considering weight in relation to typing experience, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to comfortably type for long periods, making the Panda a suitable choice in this scenario. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for a switch with heavier forces, like the WS Aurora Clear. It is worth noting that although the forces of these switches differ slightly, the overall results may still provide a similar typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm.
Traditionally, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered standard, while a 3.0 mm travel distance is considered shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, opting for the shorter 3.8 mm travel distance of the WS Aurora Clear would be the way to go.
On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial and hearty typing experience, the Aflion Panda's longer 4 mm travel distance would better suit your preferences.
Overall, choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both options offer their own advantages, and the decision should be based on whether one prioritizes responsiveness or a deeper 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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is evident that they offer different auditory experiences. The Panda switch is best known for its profound "thocky" sound profile, which creates a deep and resonant tone when typing. This sound profile is clean, sharp, and creates an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch produces a high-pitched sound when pressed. This switch offers a sharp and crisp sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more high-pitched typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Panda switch is described as an accented switch, meaning it provides a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle. This switch offers a prominent amount of tactility, which creates an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. It has a super responsive tactile force paired with a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, ensuring seamless and effortless typing. Additionally, the WS Aurora Clear switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Panda switch is known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who value hypertactility and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch provides a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization. Both switches offer unique features and qualities, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch are also dependent on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. If a specific quality is unknown, it is recommended to refer to user reviews or try out the switches personally to determine the desired experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize a highly tactile switch with a deep and resonant thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be your best choice. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer an invigorating and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches provide a buttery, mild, and polished typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value hyper-tactility and sonorous audio feedback (Panda) or a smooth, high-pitched, and customizable typing experience (WS Aurora Clear).
Mentioned in this article
