KTT Ash Gray vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Invyr Holy Panda stand out as top contenders in the world of tactile switches. The Ash Gray is characterized by its light touch and crisp actuation, offering a tactile response that is both satisfying and subtle. In contrast, the Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility and satisfying "clack" sound with each keystroke. While the Ash Gray is labeled as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Holy Panda is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make it a popular choice among 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and Invyr Holy Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. The similarity in top housing material means that users can expect comparable sound profiles and performance from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Ash Gray utilizes a nylon material which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar deep and full sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a different tactile experience when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, while both the KTT Ash Gray and Invyr Holy Panda share a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, they differ in their use of nylon in the bottom housing. The nylon material in the bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound, impacting the tactile experience when typing. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing or a deeper sound profile with the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Invyr Holy Panda's unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Holy Panda has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Ash Gray's 53 grams. This means that the Ash Gray switch would provide a more gentle typing experience with a lighter touch required for keystrokes, while the Holy Panda switch would offer a more substantial feel with a heavier push needed for keystrokes. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Ash Gray being suitable for longer typing sessions and the Holy Panda providing a more solid typing experience. Despite the differences in force, users can expect similar results in terms of key actuation and bottoming out due to both switches falling within the medium weight category.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Holy Panda's 4 mm travel distance. The Ash Gray offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the Holy Panda provides a deeper, more substantial key press experience that some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Both switches offer different benefits based on their travel distances, with the Ash Gray being the shorter option and the Holy Panda offering a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of users and settings. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switch does not have a specific description of its sound profile provided in the information. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for activation, making typing effortless and comfortable. Its mild characteristics provide a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. In contrast, the Holy Panda switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback with a snappy and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. The switch is described as accented, providing a medium tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray switch is best suited for users who prefer a light touch and a moderate sound profile, providing a pleasant tactile feedback without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda switch excels in providing a sharp, invigorating tactile feedback with a prominent tactile bump and snappy feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics that are sure to enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and tactile feedback. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more subtle tactile feedback, the Ash Gray may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharper tactile bump and a more immersive typing experience with a firmer actuation force, the Holy Panda could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you want to achieve.
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