HMX Cheese vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch to the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it's important to note the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. Being lighter than 90% of all switches, these ultra-light switches provide a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda boasts sharp tactility and a bright "clack" with each keystroke, appealing to tactile switch enthusiasts with its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Invyr Holy Panda offer different sound profiles due to their unique properties. The Cheese's nylon top housing provides a duller and rounder sound by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound because of its stiffer plastic nature. While both materials are classic switch housing options, their distinct characteristics result in noticeable differences in sound quality.
Moreover, the bottom housings of the Cheese and the Holy Panda both utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in housing material means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will elicit a similar dull and round sound quality, regardless of the specific switch model. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a consistent typing experience that focuses on creating a deeper sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch impacts the overall sound and feel of typing experience. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound when a key is pressed down. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings means that the HMX Cheese and the Invyr Holy Panda offer varied sound profiles based on their specific housing materials, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who enjoy a more robust typing experience. The actuation force of the Holy Panda is unknown, but regardless of this difference, users can expect a similar typing feel from both switches due to the relatively close actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cheese. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing weight and feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Holy Panda the longer of the two switches. In general, a travel distance of 4.0mm is considered traditional, while 3.5mm is on the shorter side. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, so the Cheese may be a better choice for them. However, some users find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, in which case the Holy Panda with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $2.99.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch offers a smooth and satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, while the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch provides a bright "clack" with each keystroke, thanks to its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still provides a satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches excel in providing a tactile typing experience, with the Holy Panda offering a more pronounced feedback compared to the Cheese.
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Cheese switch provides a light and smooth typing experience with a crisp sound signature, the Holy Panda switch stands out for its pronounced tactile feedback and bright "clack" sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, you should consider the bottom out force, typing experience, sound, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth and crisp typing experience, as well as a satisfyingly bright sound, then the HMX Cheese linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with pronounced feedback and a sharp tactile bump, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
