Aflion Panda vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White. The Panda switch is known for its unparalleled tactility and deep thocky sound, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a budget-friendly option with an incredibly light actuation force and a satisfying auditory feedback. While the Panda switch is categorized as "Accented," "Invigorating," and "Resonant," the G Pro 3.0 White is described as "Clacky," "Creamy," "Easy-to-press," "Feathery," "Mild," "Neutral," "Silky," "Subdued," and "Subtle." However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
38g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White share several similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer an enhanced auditory experience while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results from both the Panda and the G Pro 3.0 White in terms of their sound and aesthetic features.
While the two switches have a common top housing material, their bottom housing materials differ. The Aflion Panda employs nylon for its bottom housing, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White also utilizes nylon in its construction. Nylon is well-regarded as a classic switch housing material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Panda and the G Pro 3.0 White will offer a similar acoustic experience due to the use of nylon in their bottom housings. However, it's worth noting that the Panda and the G Pro 3.0 White may have different overall sound characteristics due to variances in their overall design and construction.
It is crucial to mention that the impact of the housing materials is not evenly distributed throughout the switches. The bottom housing, composed of nylon in both the Panda and the G Pro 3.0 White, primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the keys are pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing, made of polycarbonate in both switches, plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This key distinction ensures that while the housing materials may exhibit similar qualities, the overall typing experience and the resulting sound profile may vary due to the way these materials are utilized in different parts of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences. The Aflion Panda has a medium actuation force of 50 grams, meaning it requires a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier to activate.
Similarly, the Aflion Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly heavier force to fully press down the key. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter switch to type on.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This is especially suitable for individuals who frequently use their keyboards for work or engage in extended gaming sessions.
On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial and satisfying typing experience might opt for the Aflion Panda, which has slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. These individuals value the tactile feedback and prefer a stronger push feel when typing.
In summary, the Aflion Panda offers a medium actuation force and bottom out force, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White provides a lighter typing experience. Choosing between the two depends on personal preferences and the desired level of key resistance.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. While both switches offer the same level of tactile feedback and smoothness during use, it is worth noting that the travel distance can have a significant impact on typing experience and overall comfort. Therefore, whether you choose the Aflion Panda tactile switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
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 offers a unique and hyper-tactile sensation with a profoundly "thocky" sound profile. This switch provides a deep and sonorous audio feedback that sets a new standard for those who value hypertactility and immersive sound. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has a clacky sound profile that is sharp and snappy. It produces a crisp and bright sound when pressed, offering a satisfying auditory feedback. However, it also has a neutral and subdued option, which provides a more moderate and dampened sound signature. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will also depend on other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. With that said, the Panda and Pro 3.0 White offer distinct sound profiles to cater to different preferences, but both can provide a satisfying auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda is described as an accented switch, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a prominent amount of tactility while maintaining a balanced feel. This switch offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate actuation force, and a reactive feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White presents various options for feel. It offers a creamy option, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. It also has an easy-to-press option, offering a low-impact typing feel with minimal force required to activate the keys, reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, it has a feathery option that is exceptionally light to press, minimizing strain on the fingers during extended typing sessions. The G Pro 3.0 White also offers a mild and subtle option, providing a gentle typing experience in a safe middle-ground zone. Overall, the Panda and Pro 3.0 White supply different tactile sensations, catering to various preferences and typing styles.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Panda and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda provides a hyper-tactile sensation and a thocky sound profile, setting a new gold standard for those seeking hypertactility and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Pro 3.0 White offers various options, including clacky, creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, and subtle, catering to different preferences for typing feel and sound. It is important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch, and individual results may vary depending on other factors such as keycaps and keyboard board. However, both switches provide distinct qualities that are sure to enhance the typing experience, whether you prefer a hyper-tactile and thocky sensation or a versatile range of tactile options at a budget-friendly price point.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a super responsive tactile force paired with a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the way to go. It offers an unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and a sonorous audio feedback that sets a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force and effortless and sensitive keystrokes, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is the better choice. It offers an incredibly light actuation force and a satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, tactile sensation, and sound profile.
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