Gateron CJ vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Invyr Holy Panda offer distinct typing experiences for enthusiasts to choose from. The Gateron CJ is a linear switch that is celebrated for its unique and enjoyable presentation, with a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. The CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy, 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Thocky', while the Holy Panda falls under 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own appeal and reasons for choosing it, but ultimately, diving deeper into their specific attributes can help you make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Invyr Holy Panda both offer unique sound profiles that contribute to the overall typing experience of the switches. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Despite these differences, both materials offer a satisfying sound profile that enhances the typing sensation, albeit in slightly different ways. Additionally, both switches utilize clear housing materials, making them visually appealing options for those interested in RGB lighting setups.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the CJ's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, adding a unique auditory dimension to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. While both bottom housing materials offer distinct sound qualities, they both contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences for sound and feel. This variety in sound profiles allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their typing preferences.
It's worth noting that the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience can vary depending on the switch design. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, the unique qualities of each housing material in the Gateron CJ and Invyr Holy Panda switches work together to provide a well-rounded typing experience that caters to different sound preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller tone, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that enhance the overall typing sensation.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the CJ requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Holy Panda, which has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Holy Panda is heavier with a force of 67 grams compared to the CJ's 60 grams. This means that the Holy Panda provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the CJ for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while those who prefer a more solid push feel may opt for the Holy Panda. In essence, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and feel of a switch, making it crucial to consider these factors when choosing a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key feel and typing experience, regardless of whether they choose the CJ linear or the Holy Panda tactile switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 Gateron CJ linear switch is characterized by its chirpy and neutral sound profile, offering a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, thanks to its blend of pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. While the CJ provides a higher-pitched clack, the Holy Panda offers a more distinctive and sharp tactility in terms of sound, making it a preferred choice for tactile switch enthusiasts.
When it comes to the feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is known for its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel. The Holy Panda delivers a prominent amount of tactility with a reactive and immersive typing sensation, making each keypress feel distinct and satisfying. The CJ, on the other hand, offers a more approachable and safe typing experience with its mild characteristics.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ provides a unique high-pitched sound and a mild typing experience, while the Holy Panda delivers a bright "clack" sound and a sharp, invigorating feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the CJ appealing to those looking for a smoother linear switch experience, and the Holy Panda satisfying tactile enthusiasts seeking pronounced feedback and tactility. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a linear switch with a unique higher-pitched sound and smooth feel, the CJ may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer medium-heavy bottom out force and crave a tactile switch with sharp tactility and a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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