Aflion Panda vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that offer unique characteristics are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, a linear switch. The Aflion Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile, making it the go-to choice for those who value intense tactile feedback and a rich audio experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque focus on elevating the office and work experience by offering a reduction in switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners. This results in a typing experience that is both tranquil and precise. While the Panda switch falls into the accented, invigorating, resonant category, the WS Silent Linear switch is categorized as neutral, mild, muted, subdued. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear differ in their choice of housing materials. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, whereas the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Panda's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches employ the use of nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the material's sound-absorbing capabilities. However, while the Panda's nylon bottom housing contributes to its overall sound, the WS Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing also plays a significant role in determining the switch's bottom-out sound and feel. The softer plastic of the bottom housing in both switches creates a duller and rounder sound, offering a more cushioned typing experience.
While there are differences in the housing materials between the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, they both share the use of nylon, a classic switch housing material, for their bottom housings. As a result, the overall sound profiles of the two switches may bear some similarities in terms of depth and fullness. However, due to the Panda's polycarbonate top housing and the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing, they will exhibit distinctive characteristics when it comes to the sound produced upon key release. So, despite some similarities derived from the common bottom housing material, the choice of top housing material will ultimately determine the specific sound profiles of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS Silent Linear does not provide specific information regarding its actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams of force, while the WS Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Panda can be considered to have a medium actuation force and bottom out force, whereas the WS Silent Linear falls into the medium-heavy category for its bottom out force.
Considering weight, it is worth noting that lighter switches like the Panda are favored by some users as it allows them to type for longer periods of time, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel to enhance the typing experience, opting for switches with heavier forces. While the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is unknown, its higher bottom out force suggests a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the Panda.
By evaluating these characteristics, it can be concluded that the Panda has a lighter actuation force compared to the WS Silent Linear, but their bottom out forces are similar. Therefore, users seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Panda, while those desiring a slightly heavier typing feel may lean towards the WS Silent Linear.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that the Panda has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.5mm. This slight difference may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. The Panda's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the more traditional range, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear's slightly shorter 3.5mm travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time. However, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining which travel distance is more suitable. Some may find short travel distances to be too abrupt, while others appreciate the quickness and efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the Panda and WS Silent Linear switches will depend on personal preferences and desired 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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 best known for its unparalleled, hyper-tactile sensation and profoundly "thocky" sound profile. Typing on these switches provides a super responsive tactile force paired with a deep and resonant audio feedback. The sound profile of the Panda is clean, sharp, and immersive, offering an auditory experience that stands out among mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch aims to elevate the office and work experience. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively reducing switch noise. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches do not use silicone dampeners, providing a distinct typing experience without the usual cushioned sensation. The sound profile of these switches is described as neutral, muted, and subdued. While the Panda delivers a more resonant and immersive sound, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a quieter and softer typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Panda tactile switch is described as having an accented tactile feel. It falls under the category of "medium tactile" switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Typing on these switches offers an invigorating and reactive feel with moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear linear switch offers a more mild typing experience. It provides a gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The WS Silent Linear switch stands in a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users.
Taking into account all the available information, it is clear that the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Panda provides a hyper-tactile sensation and resonant "thocky" sound profile, perfect for those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied audio feedback. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch delivers a quieter typing experience with its innovative design and absence of silicone dampeners. While they differ in sound and feel characteristics, it is worth noting that individual preferences for switches vary greatly. Therefore, it is essential to consider personal preferences, along with factors such as keyboard and keycap choices when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a hyper-tactile sensation and a profound "thocky" sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a super responsive tactile force that sets a new gold standard for those who prioritize hypertactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, if you're looking to elevate your office and work experience with a switch that reduces noise while delivering unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a distinct typing experience that is devoid of the usual cushioned sensation, resulting in a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. While the Panda provides a resonant sound profile, the WS Silent Linear offers a more neutral, muted, and subdued sound depending on your preference. In terms of feel, the Panda offers an accented and invigorating typing experience, while the WS Silent Linear offers a mild and approachable feel that will suit most users. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities and preferences, but both switches are excellent options in their respective categories.
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