Aflion Panda vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Panda and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinctive features and advantages. The Panda, a tactile switch, is best known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and profound "thocky" sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, making it the go-to option for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, the WS Yellow, a linear switch, introduces a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, these switches offer a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Additionally, their lightweight design ensures effortless keystrokes for a smooth and fluid typing experience. While both switches have their merits, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in their housing materials, with the Panda featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the WS Yellow has a nylon top housing. This contrast leads to differences in the sound profile produced by these switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Panda creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a more clear and resonant sound. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound, suitable for those seeking a more mellow typing experience.
Both the Panda and WS Yellow share a common nylon material for their bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to the deep and full sound profile experienced when typing on these switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity ensures that regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
It's important to note that the differentiation in top and bottom housing materials impacts the sound profile in distinct ways. When pressing down on a switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing primarily influence the sound and feel upon bottoming out. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users should consider their preferences for sound and feel when deciding between the Aflion Panda and Wuque Studio WS Yellow, taking into account the distinctions brought by their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Panda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the unavailable grams of the WS Yellow. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force, which means they require a moderate amount of pressure to initiate a keystroke.
In terms of bottom out force, the Panda requires a slightly heavier 60 grams of force, while the WS Yellow has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, which can be classified as medium-light. This suggests that the Panda switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the WS Yellow offers a slightly lighter touch.
Considering the importance of weight in keyboard preferences, those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the WS Yellow switch, as it allows for extended typing sessions without inducing fatigue. This lighter weight is particularly suitable for individuals who use their keyboards for long work hours or intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more robust typing sensation may lean towards the Panda switch, as its heavier bottom out force provides a more satisfying and substantial keystroke feel.
In terms of similarities, both switches have a medium actuation force, which means they provide a balanced level of responsiveness for typing enthusiasts. While the specific force for actuation is unavailable for the WS Yellow, it can be presumed that the desired actuation force can still be achieved in a similar manner to the Panda, resulting in a comparable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience – lighter or more substantial.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch both have different travel distances. The Panda has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Panda's 4.0 mm travel distance is a more traditional distance, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Yellow offers a slightly shallower travel distance of 3.8 mm, which might be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences. Those who enjoy a more hefty feel may opt for the Panda with its longer travel distance, while those seeking faster responsiveness may lean towards the WS Yellow with its slightly shorter travel distance. However, regardless of the choice, both switches offer a tactile and satisfying 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 Yellow 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 known for its resonant and "thocky" sound profile. Typing on these switches will result in a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is not provided, so it remains unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda switch offers an invigorating and accented tactile experience. This means that it provides pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. It falls into a medium tactile category, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. On the contrary, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, mild, and polished. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials. They provide a gentle typing experience without any extreme characteristics, making them approachable for most users. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, these switches offer a polished and sleek typing sensation.
Overall, the Aflion Panda switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and "thocky" sound profile, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch offers a delightful typing experience with its creamy feel and polished finish. Unfortunately, specific sound information is not available for the WS Yellow switch. If you are seeking a switch with a similar auditory experience to the Panda, it is recommended to consider factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing users to enjoy their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be the best choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda offers a super responsive tactile force paired alongside a sonorous audio feedback, creating an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch that provides effortless keystrokes and a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch would be more suitable. With a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, the WS Yellow features a delightful bounce and a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. The Panda is best described as resonant, offering a higher-pitched sound profile, while the WS Yellow's sound profile is not specified. In terms of feel, the Panda is accented and invigorating, providing a prominent amount of tactility and a snappy and reactive feel. The WS Yellow, on the other hand, is creamy, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Panda and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches will depend on your desired typing experience and preferences.
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