Kailh Box Navy vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and the Invyr Holy Panda are two popular options with distinctive characteristics. The Box Navy is a clicky switch perfect for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience with a satisfying sound signature reminiscent of vintage keyboards. On the other hand, the Holy Panda is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactility and bright "clack" with each keystroke, appealing to tactile switch enthusiasts. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but diving deeper beyond generalities will help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Invyr Holy Panda are quite similar, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will create a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This design choice ensures that both switches offer a well-rounded auditory experience for users.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, the Kailh Box Navy and the Invyr Holy Panda may still offer slightly different typing experiences. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches will result in a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly noticeable when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the impact of the nylon bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches may influence the overall typing experience. This means that while both switches will have a sharp and full sound profile, the Holy Panda may offer a slightly duller and rounder sound due to the absorption properties of nylon.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Kailh Box Navy and the Invyr Holy Panda plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, small nuances in sound quality may still differentiate the two switches. Ultimately, users can expect a sharp, crisp sound profile from both switches, with the choice between them coming down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Holy Panda, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Navy requires 90 grams of force while the Holy Panda demands 67 grams. This makes the Box Navy significantly heavier in both aspects. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Holy Panda, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Box Navy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. The Box Navy's shorter travel distance may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, while the Holy Panda's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Navy switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp sound reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Invyr Holy Panda is not explicitly described, but given its tactile nature, it would likely produce a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. Both switches are clicky in nature, so you can expect similar results in terms of sound, depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is characterized by a sharp and invigorating tactile bump, offering a high feedback intensity and a stiff feel that requires more force to actuate and bottom out. The Invyr Holy Panda, on the other hand, is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a medium level of tactility that is not too overwhelming yet still prominent. Both switches offer pronounced feedback and a reactive typing sensation, ensuring an immersive experience for tactile switch enthusiasts.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Box Navy excels in providing a robust and resonant typing experience with a vintage touch, while the Holy Panda delivers a bright and satisfying tactile feedback that is highly sought after. Depending on whether you prefer a heavier, crisp click or a balanced tactility, both switches offer distinct advantages that will enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Box Navy and the Holy Panda will come down to personal preference and desired typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a crisp, resonant click sound, the Box Navy switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with sharp tactility and a satisfying "clack" sound, the Holy Panda switches would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize heftiness and vintage clicky switch qualities or sharp tactility and bright keystroke feedback.
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