Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the linear Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch and the tactile Invyr Holy Panda switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. The G Pro Silver switch is perfect for gamers looking for lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive edge, thanks to its shorter travel distance and medium-high pitch for an exhilarating auditory experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switch is a favorite among tactile enthusiasts for its sharp tactility, satisfyingly bright "clack," and pronounced feedback. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Invyr Holy Panda, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switches. While both switches share these qualities in their top housings, the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Holy Panda differentiate themselves in their bottom housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Holy Panda also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar deep and full sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a unique typing experience, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Holy Panda differ in terms of materials, ultimately the switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in these switches allows for a balance of sharp, clear sounds from the top housing and deep, full sounds from the bottom housing. The unique qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall typing experience, making these switches popular choices among enthusiasts seeking premium sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch boasts a light actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. In comparison, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch does not disclose its actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Silver the lighter option between the two, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda offers a more substantial typing feel with its medium-heavy bottom out force. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver catering to those who prefer a lighter touch and the Holy Panda appealing to users who enjoy a more robust typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Silver's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Holy Panda's longer travel distance provides a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver catering to those who value speed and the Holy Panda catering to those who value a more pronounced tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. The thocky sound they produce adds to the overall auditory experience, creating a satisfyingly immersive gaming atmosphere. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switches is currently unknown, but it can be assumed that they may offer a different sound experience due to their tactile nature. Both switches can be paired with different boards and keycaps to further tailor the sound to your preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. The seamless sensation they provide allows for a comfortable and enjoyable typing session, enhancing your overall productivity. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda switches are characterized by their accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. This tactile profile provides a distinct and pronounced feel with each keystroke, making typing a highly engaging and tactile experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches excel in providing a deep and rich sound profile with a smooth and buttery typing experience, catering well to gaming enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switches stand out for their sharp tactility and pronounced feedback, offering a highly engaging and tactile typing experience favored by tactile switch enthusiasts. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific use case for the switches.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for gaming, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is a great choice. The G Pro 3.0 Silver's buttery and creamy feel, along with its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, can enhance your gaming experience. On the other hand, if you desire a unique tactile switch with sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfying "clack" sound, the Holy Panda is the way to go. The Holy Panda's accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel can provide an immersive typing sensation for enthusiasts. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing or gaming style and preferences.
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