TTC Brother vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Brother stands out for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a breezy typing experience that is accompanied by a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature loved by clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, delivering a bright "clack" with each keystroke that appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts. The Brother is described as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', while the Holy Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that make it appealing in different ways, catering to those who prioritize either sound or tactile feedback. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Invyr Holy Panda, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities due to its translucency. The similarities in the top housing of these switches suggest that users can expect a similar sound experience when typing on either the Brother or the Holy Panda.
However, the key point of differentiation lies in the bottom housing material used for each switch. The TTC Brother features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Conversely, the Invyr Holy Panda also employs a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the same depth and fullness in sound. While both switches share this characteristic, the combination of polycarbonate top housing with nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience for each.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the TTC Brother and Invyr Holy Panda differ, the overall typing experience is impacted by the qualities each material brings to the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a significant impact when typing. On the other hand, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the typing experience, users can choose a switch that best suits their sound preference and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke compared to the Holy Panda, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Holy Panda has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Brother switch, which has an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the TTC Brother switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may favor the Invyr Holy Panda switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Holy Panda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. The difference may seem minor, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keyboard typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch is recognized for its crunchy sound signature, akin to the satisfying noise of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, details regarding the sound of the Holy Panda tactile switch are currently unknown. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a light typing experience that reduces fatigue during extended use. Additionally, it is described as having a stepped feel, providing a distinct tactile sensation with noticeable pre-travel and post-travel stages. The Holy Panda tactile switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium amount of tactility that is both pronounced and responsive. This switch type is also known for its sharp and snappy tactile bump, providing a definitive typing sensation.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in delivering a lightweight and crisp typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, ideal for enthusiasts of clicky switches. In comparison, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch stands out for its pronounced feedback, bright "clack" sound, and invigorating tactile feel that appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts. While each switch has its unique qualities, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinctive feedback from both options.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light, breezy actuation with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Holy Panda switch could offer you an invigorating and sharp typing experience. Whether you value easy-to-press switches with a stepped feel or accented switches with a sharp and snappy response, both options have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Consider how you type, what kind of feedback you prefer, and the sound profile that appeals to you in order to make the best decision for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths and choosing between them will depend on what attributes of a mechanical keyboard switch matter most to you.
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