Aflion Panda vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile are two popular options worth considering. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and "thocky" sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a responsive tactile force and full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches from Wuque Studio offer a profound and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying resistance of 70g with each keystroke. These switches also produce a captivating sound profile thanks to Wuque Studios' nylon housings, resulting in a "thocky" resonance that adds to the overall typing experience. Both switches fall under the "Accented" and "Resonant" categories, but they differ in terms of their additional characteristics. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can determine which switch best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile exhibit notable differences. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these disparities, both top housings offer advantages when it comes to RGB lighting thanks to their translucency.
Moving to the bottom housings, the Panda and the WS Heavy Tactile share a common material – nylon. Nylon is celebrated as a classic switch housing material that provides a deep and full sound profile. Due to its softness, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, which ultimately contributes to a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing plays a critical role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience. Hence, users of both switches can expect a similar level of depth and resonance in their typing feedback due to the employment of nylon in the bottom housing.
While the differences in top and bottom housing materials affect various aspects of the switch's performance, it is essential to recognize the impact of these materials when pressing down and releasing a key. The bottom housing’s qualities significantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel, delivering a tactile experience that varies between switches. Conversely, the top housing's characteristics predominantly affect the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, individuals using the Aflion Panda or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile can look forward to unique sensations and distinct sound signatures depending on which housing material dominates in their respective switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile is unknown. However, the Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.
In terms of weight, lighter switches like the WS Heavy Tactile have their advantages. They allow for a lighter touch, which can be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. The reduced actuation force can provide a smoother and quicker typing experience.
On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing feel and a stronger push. For these individuals, the Aflion Panda's heavier actuation force may be more suitable. The actuation force of 50 grams adds a bit of resistance, giving the user a tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience.
While the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, those seeking a similar typing experience can choose the WS Heavy Tactile and adjust their typing technique to reach a similar actuation point. By typing with slightly more force, users can simulate the actuation experience of the Aflion Panda, even though the exact actuation force remains unknown for the WS Heavy Tactile.
Overall, the Aflion Panda can be considered the heavier option due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a lighter experience with its unknown actuation force and lower bottom out force of 45 grams.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that there is a difference in their distances. The Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm.
A 4.0mm travel distance is more aligned with traditional switch distances, providing users with a familiar feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a slightly shallower 3.2 mm travel distance. This shorter distance may be appealing to gamers or those seeking faster response times. The reduced travel distance can contribute to quicker keystrokes and improved reaction times in fast-paced gaming scenarios.
However, it's important to note that while shorter travel distances are popular among certain users, they may not be everyone's preference. Some individuals find that shorter travel distances feel too abrupt, lacking the satisfying depth they desire when pressing down on a key. For those who prioritize a more substantial tactile experience, the Aflion Panda with its longer 4 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Panda and the WS Heavy Tactile switches will depend on individual preferences and requirements. If responsiveness and fast-paced gaming are essential, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance may be the preferred option. However, if a more substantial and traditional keystroke feel is desired, the Aflion Panda's longer travel distance would be the better choice.
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 Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Panda switch is described as having a "thocky" sound profile, which is characterized by a deep and resonant echo. Typing on the Panda switch provides a full-bodied audio feedback that is clean and sharp, resulting in an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as producing a "thocky" resonance as well. The sound profile of these switches is crisp, bright, and percussive, giving it a clacky sound when pressed. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory feedback, with the Panda switch having a more resonant sound and the WS Heavy Tactile switch having a clacky and snappy sound.
In terms of feel, both the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are described as accented switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches offer pronounced feedback and an invigorating typing sensation. The Panda switch is known for its hyper-tactile sensation, combining a super responsive tactile force with a satisfying resistance. Similarly, the WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts a profound and pronounced tactile bump, providing a tactile force of 70g for each keystroke. This makes typing on both switches an engaging and immersive journey, with a snappy and reactive feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda switch stands out for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch impresses with its pronounced tactile bump, satisfying resistance, and immersive auditory experience. While both switches offer an accented tactile feel, they have slightly different sound profiles. However, if you are looking for a similar result, either switch can provide an exceptional typing experience with their respective tactile feedback and satisfying sound profiles.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is a great choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a responsive tactile force and a deep thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a remarkable tactile bump and a satisfying resistance, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the one you should consider. With a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides an engaging and immersive typing experience. Additionally, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a familiar and captivating sound profile with a "thocky" resonance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for the level of tactility, bottom-out force, and sound profile. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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