Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Invyr Holy Panda, both of which are tactile switches. The G Pro 3.0 Brown from Gateron is praised for its budget-friendly nature while still delivering a high-quality typing experience. It offers a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that enhances typing without disrupting the flow. The frosted light diffuser amplifies RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience, while the medium-high pitch provides satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Holy Panda is known for its sharp tactility, giving each keystroke a bright "clack" that tactile switch enthusiasts love. With pronounced feedback and unmatched acoustic resonance, the Holy Panda stands out for those seeking an invigorating and sharp typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Invyr Holy Panda both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and Holy Panda differ in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Holy Panda also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Invyr Holy Panda offer similar sound characteristics due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This means that both switches will deliver a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile when actuated. However, when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown may provide a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound for a rounder sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Invyr Holy Panda housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with a clear resonance, the switches' polycarbonate top housing will deliver these qualities. However, if you lean towards a deeper and fuller sound with a duller rounder tone, the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, we see some differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Holy Panda is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, which may suit different preferences. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer hours of use, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Holy Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that you will get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches provide a consistent tactile feedback at the same travel distance, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is known for its medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Holy Panda tactile switch is renowned for providing a bright "clack" with each keystroke, thanks to its sharp tactility. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro Brown leaning towards a more subtle and immersive experience, while the Holy Panda provides a more pronounced and satisfying auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a low-impact and responsive typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. In comparison, the Holy Panda tactile switch is characterized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a prominent amount of tactility with moderate to firm actuation force. The Holy Panda offers a more intense and tactile typing feel compared to the mild and approachable feel of the G Pro Brown.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro Brown provides a subtle tactile sensation and medium-high pitch sound, ideal for those seeking a gentle typing experience, the Holy Panda stands out with its sharp tactility and bright "clack" sound, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced and invigorating typing feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer excellent performance and can elevate your typing experience to new heights with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch or the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option with a gentle and subtle tactile sensation, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you crave a switch with sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfyingly bright "clack," the Holy Panda could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so be sure to consider your typing experience and preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can enhance your typing experience in different ways.