Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, to the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, you will find distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro switches are known for their fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bouncy and chirpy sound signature while providing a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switches stand out for their sharp tactility, delivering a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke and a blend of pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. Both switches have their unique characteristics that can appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Invyr Holy Panda both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing aesthetic. However, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a similar sound profile to the top housing, while the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing material, the differences lie in the bottom housing materials. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro maintains consistency in sound profile throughout the switch, as both the top and bottom housings are made of polycarbonate. This results in a sharper and clearer sound profile when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound experience. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing.
In terms of design and functionality, the choice of housing materials for each switch impacts the overall typing experience. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the Invyr Holy Panda provides a multi-dimensional sound profile, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the switch ensures a uniform sound profile when typing. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Holy Panda is heavier at 67 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams. This means that the Holy Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the V3 Crystal Pro offers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balanced typing experience for users who prefer different levels of force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, we can see that the Crystal Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Holy Panda's 4 mm. The slight difference in travel distance may result in a quicker key press response with the Crystal Pro, making it suitable for gamers looking for fast reaction times. On the other hand, the Holy Panda offers a slightly deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users seeking a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a unique chirpy sound signature, adding a bit of squeakiness to each keystroke, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is renowned for its satisfyingly bright "clack," thanks to its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. Both switches offer distinct acoustic profiles that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Crystal Pro providing a brighter and more lively sound, while the Holy Panda delivers a sharp and resonant clack with each press.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, characterized by a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. This bouncy and polished feel enhances the typing experience, offering a lively sensation with every key press. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet distinct. The Holy Panda switch offers a pronounced tactile bump, moderate to firm actuation force, and snappy responsiveness, creating an immersive typing sensation that is both satisfying and engaging.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both cater to specific preferences and typing styles. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, ideal for those looking for a bright and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda offers a satisfyingly bright clack with pronounced feedback and an invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feel, perfect for tactile switch enthusiasts seeking a more immersive and engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactility with pronounced feedback and a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda may be the switch for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to determine what qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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