Aflion Panda vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the HMX Xinhai, a linear switch. The Panda is celebrated for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai is admired for its softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a more precise and sophisticated typing experience. While the Panda is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', and 'Resonant', the Xinhai is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths and qualities to consider when selecting the best switch for your typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 HMX Xinhai both include polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Panda and Xinhai differ in their bottom housing material, with the Panda utilizing nylon. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Because both the Panda and Xinhai share the same polycarbonate top housing material, users can expect similar sound profiles when typing on these switches. However, the difference lies in their bottom housing material, with the Panda's nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Xinhai's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in material affects the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing is more impactful on the sound when the key is released.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Panda and the HMX Xinhai feature polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The Panda's choice of nylon for the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a different sound experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for typing experience and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Panda requires a heavier force both for actuation and bottoming out compared to the Xinhai. The Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The Panda provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a tactile response. Meanwhile, the Xinhai offers a lighter touch, which is preferred by users looking for longer typing sessions or smoother keystrokes. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight of the force required, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch is 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai the shorter option compared to the Panda. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Panda being slightly on the longer end. Gamers may prefer the Xinhai for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and key feel.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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 tactile switch offers a resonant sound profile that is clean, sharp, and higher-pitched, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, giving a crisp and bright tone when pressed. Both switches deliver distinct audio feedback, with the Panda leaning towards a deep "thocky" echo and the Xinhai showcasing a softer acoustics profile with a higher-pitched resonance. Depending on your preference for sound, you can expect a satisfying auditory experience from either switch.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Panda switch offers an invigorating tactile sensation with a super responsive tactile force, creating a pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. This results in a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel and a smooth, buttery sensation when pressed. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Panda focusing on hyper-tactility and the Xinhai blending subtle sophistication with precise performance.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each bring their own distinct qualities to the table. While the Panda excels in hyper-tactility and a full-bodied, sonorous audio feedback, the Xinhai offers a blend of softer acoustics and precise performance. Depending on whether you prioritize a resonant and hyper-tactile typing experience or a crisp and bright sound profile with a bouncy and creamy feel, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile, the Panda switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are seeking a switch with a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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