Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Invyr Holy Panda offer distinct experiences for enthusiasts. The Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 switches are a budget-friendly option that provides a satisfying poppy, clacky sound and a smooth typing experience. Ideal for those who appreciate a vibrant auditory experience and a creamy tactile feel, these switches are categorized as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. On the other hand, the Holy Panda is revered for its sharp tactility, offering a bright "clack" with each keystroke. Known for their pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, these switches are categorized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. Each switch has its own unique qualities and appeal, making it important to consider your preferences before making a decision. 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
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
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Invyr Holy Panda, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, making them ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing element to both switches. While the top housings are the same, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Holy Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar typing experience with a focus on sound absorption.
However, the differences in the bottom housings of the two switches may lead to variations in the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, such as a deeper and fuller sound profile, will be felt more prominently when pressing down on the switch. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the properties of the nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the top housing of both switches, being polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings ensures a unique typing experience for each switch.
Overall, while the top housings of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Invyr Holy Panda share similar qualities due to their polycarbonate material, the differences in their bottom housings provide distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound, but the impact of this material is more evident when pressing down on the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. On the other hand, the split between the top and bottom housing qualities ensures that each switch offers a unique sound profile and overall typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Holy Panda's unknown actuation force. Both switches have a similar medium bottom out force, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requiring 60 grams and the Holy Panda requiring 67 grams. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be favored by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, while the Holy Panda would be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Holy Panda is heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Holy Panda's 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Holy Panda offers a deeper and more pronounced key press with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference; those seeking speed and responsiveness may opt for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while those desiring a more tactile typing experience may prefer the Invyr Holy Panda.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are praised for their poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switches are known for their satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, thanks to their pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, and the actual sound produced can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth and low-impact typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switches are characterized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a medium tactile feedback with a snappy and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences that cater to individuals looking for different levels of feedback and actuation force.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches and Invyr Holy Panda switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow Pro switches provide a combination of a poppy sound with a creamy tactile feel, while the Holy Pandas deliver a bright clack accompanied by sharp tactility. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer satisfying experiences that can elevate your typing or gaming sessions. In conclusion, whether you choose the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the Invyr Holy Panda switches, you can expect quality performance and a unique typing experience that align with your personal preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch or the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences in typing experience. If you value a smooth, slightly bouncy and light switch that provides a satisfying clicky sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp, invigorating tactile switch with a prominent feedback sensation and a more pronounced "clack" sound, then the Holy Panda would be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what feels best for your typing needs.