SP-Star Ayara vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves torn between linear and tactile switch options for their typing preferences. On one hand, the SP-Star Ayara offers a medium heftiness that provides a hearty typing experience, with a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. This linear switch is categorized as neutral, high-pitched, and polished, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. With a blend of pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, it stands unmatched in the hearts of tactile switch enthusiasts. While each switch has its own unique qualities, choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Invyr Holy Panda, one significant difference lies in the material used for their top housings. The Ayara features a nylon top housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in sound profiles highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings of the SP-Star Ayara and the Invyr Holy Panda, they both utilize nylon material. This similarity in housing material results in both switches offering a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon plastic allows for greater sound absorption, leading to a duller and rounder sound that is appreciated by mechanical keyboard users. Despite other differences in their top housings, the shared use of nylon for their bottom housings showcases the importance of this material in creating a satisfying typing experience with a specific sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing material in mechanical keyboard switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing feel of the switch. While the SP-Star Ayara and the Invyr Holy Panda differ in their top housing materials, they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This split in housing materials highlights how the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's nylon or polycarbonate, the housing material choice directly contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium, while the Holy Panda has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, which means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is not specified. In terms of weight, the Ayara would be considered lighter compared to the Holy Panda due to the lower bottom out force. Some users may prefer the Ayara for longer typing sessions or gaming, as the lighter force can be more comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Holy Panda with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Despite any differences in their tactile or linear characteristics, both switches offer a comfortable amount of travel for users seeking a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch offers a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, providing a bright "clack" with each keystroke. Both switches can provide satisfying auditory feedback, with the Ayara offering a moderate sound profile and the Holy Panda offering a more distinctive and vibrant sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda switch is described as accented, providing a medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming but still offers a noticeable bump with each keypress. The Holy Panda switch also offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, along with snappy responsiveness that can enhance the typing sensation for users who enjoy a more tactile feedback.
Overall, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch offer different but equally appealing qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Ayara switch provides a more neutral and moderate typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Holy Panda switch delivers a more pronounced and vibrant tactile feedback with a sharp "clack" sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing sensations.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a medium heftness with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Whether you choose the Ayara for its medium heftness or the Holy Panda for its iconic tactility, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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