Aflion Panda vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Yanyu offer distinct experiences to cater to different needs. The Panda, renowned for its Holy Panda feature, delivers an unmatched hyper-tactile sensation and a profoundly "thocky" sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force that sets a new standard for those who prioritize hypersensitivity and a rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are ideal for individuals seeking a more delicate typing experience, especially for extended periods of time. With its material blend, the Yanyu switch offers a crisp sound profile. While the Panda is characterized as "accented," "invigorating," and "resonant," the Yanyu is often described as "neutral," "mild," "thocky," "feathery," "subtle," and "polished." However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Aflion Panda and the SP-Star Yanyu switches differ significantly. On one hand, the Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more defined audio experience. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency enhances the switch's aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu features a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, which provides a pleasant sound profile that is bright rather than piercing. This formulation creates a softer and more balanced audio output, appealing to users who prefer a milder typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Panda employs nylon, a classic material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a dulled and rounded audio profile. This characteristic is particularly appealing to those who prefer a more subdued typing sound. Conversely, the Yanyu combines polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, offering a unique blend of qualities. While details about the sound profile are not explicitly mentioned, the description emphasizes the blend's exceptional nature and pleasant sound. Thus, despite the difference in materials, both switches prioritize delivering a satisfying and enjoyable audio experience.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials in the Panda and Yanyu switches showcases their impact on specific aspects of typing. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, influencing the sound and feel upon bottoming out a key. In the Panda, this means experiencing a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon bottom housing, while the Yanyu's blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE likely offers a unique and satisfying sensation. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the sound is primarily influenced by the top housing material. The polycarbonate top housing of the Panda promises a sharper and crisper sound, while the Yanyu's unique blend results in a brighter audio output. Although the specific qualities may differ, both switches prioritize delivering distinct sound experiences throughout the typing process.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is important to consider their actuation force and bottom out force. The Aflion Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls within the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the SP-Star Yanyu switch is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is considered light.
The difference in actuation force between the two switches means that the Aflion Panda requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke compared to the SP-Star Yanyu, which could result in a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier feel. Conversely, the lighter bottom out force of the SP-Star Yanyu switch may be appealing to individuals who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing or gaming sessions.
It should be noted that if the actuation force of the SP-Star Yanyu switch is similar to that of the Aflion Panda, then users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and force required to trigger keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keyboard weight and the desired level of push feel.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 is known for its resonant profile. Typing on this switch produces a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp, giving an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate sound profile. However, it also has a thocky characteristic, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when the key is pressed and released. It's worth noting that the sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda offers an accented tactile experience. While it is not classified as a hypertactile switch, it still provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This switch offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a milder typing experience that is approachable to most users. It has a gentle resistance and a feathery feel that requires little exertion, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, it offers a subtle typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces and a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is best known for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile. It offers a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback, setting a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is perfect for those looking for a more delicate typing experience or typing for long periods of time. It has a crisp sound profile, a milder and more approachable feel, and offers a feathery lightness that reduces finger fatigue. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice between them will depend on personal preferences and typing needs. However, if you are looking for a similar level of satisfaction in terms of sound and feel, the Yanyu switch is a suitable alternative to the Panda switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are someone who values an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and a deep "thocky" sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium amount of resistance. The Panda switches offer an invigorating typing experience, with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. Additionally, the resonant sound profile creates a clean and sharp auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate and gentle typing experience, especially for prolonged periods of typing, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, it has a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. The Yanyu switches offer a mild and feathery feel, making them comfortable for extended gaming, school, or work sessions. The crisp sound profile adds to the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound, the Panda switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more delicate and gentle typing experience, the Yanyu switch would be the better option. Make sure to consider the typing force, sound profile, and overall feel to choose the switch that suits your needs the best.
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