Aflion Panda vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, to the HMX EMO, a linear switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, making it ideal for those who value intense tactile feedback and a rich audio experience. On the other hand, the EMO stands out for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a smooth and bouncy typing experience. While the Panda is categorized as ['Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant'], the EMO's category remains unspecified. Each switch has its strengths and appeals to different preferences depending on the typing experience desired. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 EMO are quite similar, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. As a result, both the Panda and the EMO offer a clear and resonant sound experience, making them ideal for users who appreciate a vibrant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Aflion Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. On the other hand, the HMX EMO also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a more muted sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound and feel of each switch when typing.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material in both the Aflion Panda and the HMX EMO will have a significant impact on the sound profile and feel when pressing down on the keys. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound when releasing the keys. This split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the unique qualities of each material for a balanced sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it is evident that the EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Panda's 50 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the EMO at 46 grams is also lighter compared to the Panda's 60 grams. This means that the EMO switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the Panda switch offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the EMO being the lighter option and the Panda providing a slightly heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Afilon Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the EMO has a shorter travel distance than the Panda. The Panda's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a bit more depth when typing or gaming, while the EMO's 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shallower and may be preferred by those looking for a quicker response time. Both switches offer different experiences due to their travel distances, with the Panda offering a bit more resistance and travel, while the EMO provides a quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
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 EMO comes in at $3.49 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Panda tactile switch offers a resonant, thocky sound profile that is both satisfying and immersive. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch's sound profile is not specified, so it is unknown how it compares to the Panda in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is described as having an accented and invigorating tactile feedback that provides a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. This creates a typing experience that is responsive and satisfying. Conversely, the HMX EMO linear switch is noted for its lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering a bouncy and effortless typing experience. While the specific details of the feel may vary between the two switches, overall they both offer a tactile typing experience that is sure to be enjoyable.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda offers a hyper-tactile sensation with a thocky sound profile, while the EMO provides a clacky feel with a light bottom-out force. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in different ways, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference for either a tactile or linear typing experience. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Panda or the EMO switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience that will meet your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it really comes down to your preferences in typing experience. If you value an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation with a deep thocky sound profile, then the Panda is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light bottom-out force for a smooth and satisfying typing experience, then the EMO is the better choice for you. Ultimately, consider whether you prioritize tactility and sound profile or a bouncy, effortless typing experience when making your decision.
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