Aflion Panda vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and TTC Iron stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. The Panda offers a hyper-tactile sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, setting a new gold standard for those who value hypertactility and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Iron by TTC boasts a pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkable lightness, making it ideal for swift and fatigue-free typing sessions. While the Panda is accented, invigorating, and resonant, the Iron is easy-to-press, clacky, mild, and neutral. These distinctive characteristics cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp and clear sound profile, while the TTC Iron utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. The contrast between the two materials is evident in the tone and resonance of the switches. While the Panda's polycarbonate top housing may deliver a crisper sound, the Iron's POM top housing offers a more subdued and pleasing auditory experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the Iron utilizes POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. Both materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the deeper tones produced by POM.
The combination of different housing materials in the Panda and Iron switches highlights how the qualities of each material impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of each switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when the key is released. Despite the differences in material composition between the two switches, the overall typing experience may yield similar results as both switches aim to provide a unique and pleasing sound profile to users.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Panda has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Iron's 41 grams, making the Iron lighter in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams while the Iron only needs 50 grams, making the Iron heavier when fully pressed. The Panda provides a more medium resistance overall, whereas the Iron is on the lighter side. This means that the Panda may offer a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, while the Iron is better suited for those looking for a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches provide different levels of feedback and force, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Panda offering a slightly longer key press depth compared to the Iron. Gamers who prioritize quicker response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Iron switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press depth may lean towards the Panda switch. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback, but the Panda offers a slightly more noticeable key press depth compared to the Iron. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the user's specific typing or gaming needs.
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 TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 and deep "thocky" sound profile, providing a full-bodied auditory experience that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch produces a clacky sound signature that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory component to each keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the typing experience, with the Panda focusing on a sonorous thock and the Iron emphasizing a clacky resonance.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is characterized by an invigorating and accentuated tactile response that is not overwhelming but provides a medium level of tactility. This creates an immersive typing sensation that offers pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch is designed to be easy-to-press with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable. The Iron switch offers a mild typing experience, with gentle resistance during key presses and a low-impact feel that can reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback, with the Panda being more invigorating and the Iron offering a smoother and lighter typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and TTC Iron linear switch provide distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in offering a hyper-tactile experience with a deep "thocky" sound profile, while the Iron focuses on a pronounced clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to a variety of users. Whether opting for the hyper-tactility of the Panda or the smoothness of the Iron, users can expect satisfying results based on their desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep, thocky sound profile, opt for the Panda. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, pronounced clacky sound signature, and smooth travel for fatigue-free typing, the Iron may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of tactility, sound profile, and typing experience. So, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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