Aflion Panda vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda and the Invyr Holy Panda mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a tactile typing experience with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Panda is praised for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep, "thocky" sound profile, providing a full-bodied and sonorous audio feedback. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda showcases sharp tactility and a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. While the Aflion Panda is accented, invigorating, and resonant, the Invyr Holy Panda is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. These distinctions make each switch unique and appealing to different types of tactile switch enthusiasts. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Panda and the Invyr Holy Panda utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for those looking for a distinctive typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the switch. In terms of sound and feel, users can expect a similar experience from both switches due to their shared top housing material.
On the other hand, the Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. When typing on a switch with a nylon bottom housing, users can expect a more muted and dampened typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings of the switch allows for a unique combination of sound and feel, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the Invyr Holy Panda comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Panda offers a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the Holy Panda. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a more muted, dampened sound, each switch provides a unique typing feel that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Holy Panda, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Panda is slightly lighter at 60 grams, while the Holy Panda has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. The actuation force of the Panda requires a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Holy Panda's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottoming out, the Panda provides a medium level of resistance, whereas the Holy Panda offers a medium-heavy resistance. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but the Holy Panda may offer a slightly heavier typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance you feel when you press down on a key. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying travel distance, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. With similar travel distances, both the Aflion Panda and Invyr Holy Panda tactile switches will offer a similar feel when typing or gaming, allowing users to enjoy a smooth and consistent performance.
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 Invyr Holy Panda has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holy Panda for $7.17.
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 is known for its resonant quality, providing a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is not specifically described, but it is likely to offer a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. Both switches are likely to deliver a unique audio feedback experience based on their tactile design, with the Panda offering a deep "thocky" sound and the Holy Panda providing a bright "clack."
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Aflion Panda and the Invyr Holy Panda are described as accented and invigorating, providing a pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. This results in a snappy and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the Aflion Panda is described as invigorating and offering a sharp tactile response, while the Holy Panda is mentioned to have a sharp and snappy feel due to its intense tactile bump and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Panda and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switches offer a unique typing experience with their accented, invigorating feel and distinct sound profiles. While specific details may vary based on personal preferences and additional factors like keyboard configuration and keycap choice, newcomers can expect a high level of tactility and a satisfying typing experience from either switch. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aflion Panda or the Invyr Holy Panda, you can expect a similar level of tactile feedback and a rewarding typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams and a resonant sound profile, the Aflion Panda may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and a switch known for its sharp tactility and bright "clack" sound, the Invyr Holy Panda would be the more suitable option. Both switches offer a blend of pronounced feedback and an invigorating typing experience, but the subtle differences in force and sound may help guide your decision. Ultimately, your personal typing preferences and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch will dictate which option is the best fit for you.
Mentioned in this article
