Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Invyr Holy Panda offer unique typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out as a linear switch with a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those seeking a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Holy Panda is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Black focuses on providing a balanced medium-heavy experience with a medium-high pitch, the Holy Panda excels in delivering pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, which is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Holy Panda's top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, especially useful if RGB lighting is a priority. While both housings offer distinct sound profiles, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend is characterized as pointed yet not overly sharp, whereas the Holy Panda's polycarbonate adds a level of stiffness for a more pronounced sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that creates a unique sound profile on the deeper side and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Holy Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than POM, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing materials highlights how the choice of material can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, with POM contributing to a more unique and muted sound while nylon delivers a deeper and fuller typing experience.
While the housing materials for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Invyr Holy Panda differ in terms of top and bottom materials, each brings unique qualities to the switches. The split between top and bottom housing allows for different impacts on the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials, both switches are engineered to provide a satisfying and distinctive typing experience based on the unique properties of their respective housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Black is slightly heavier at 70 grams compared to the Holy Panda's 67 grams. Despite the slight difference in weights, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the G Pro 3.0 Black more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Holy Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect consistent feedback and key travel with both switches, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a standard travel distance. While both switches offer the same travel distance, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is a linear switch, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, while the Holy Panda switch is a tactile switch, offering a bump in typing feel to provide additional feedback to the user. Overall, these switches are comparable in their travel distance, but offer different typing experiences depending on user preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a clacky and slightly subdued sound profile. The sharp and snappy sound produced by this switch gives a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, but specific sound descriptors are not provided. Both switches will provide distinct and enjoyable sound experiences, with the Holy Panda likely offering a more pronounced and tactile feedback sound compared to the linear G Pro 3.0 Black.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience. The smooth and buttery sensation combined with gentle resistance offers a balanced medium-heavy feel that appeals to users looking for a substantial typing experience. In comparison, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. These descriptors highlight the Holy Panda's strong tactile bump, pronounced feedback, and reactive feel, ensuring an immersive typing sensation with each keypress. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more subtle and smooth typing experience, the Holy Panda offers a more tactile and responsive feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a substantial and smoother typing experience with a clacky and subdued sound profile, while the Holy Panda stands out for its sharp tactility and bright clack sound. Depending on whether you prefer a linear switch with medium-heavy feel or a tactile switch with pronounced feedback, you can achieve satisfying results with either option. Ultimately, both switches deliver premium quality performance that will elevate your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a balanced feel and medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with pronounced feedback, bright "clack" sound, and a snappy and reactive typing sensation, the Holy Panda would be more suitable. Consider your typing needs and preferences carefully to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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