Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it's essential to note their distinct characteristics and appeal. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its budget-friendly excellence, offering a polished, high-pitched typing experience that is both creamy and resonant. On the other hand, the Holy Panda boasts sharp tactility, providing a bright "clack" with each keystroke that is accented and invigoratingly snappy. Each switch has its own unique benefits and appeal, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow catering to those who prefer a smoother typing experience, while the Holy Panda is ideal for tactile switch enthusiasts seeking 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The biggest contrast between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Invyr Holy Panda lies in their housing materials. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp, crisp sound profile ideal for RGB lighting, they differ in their bottom housings. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. In comparison, the Holy Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar deep and full sound profile. This similarity in housing materials suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience with both switches.
Despite the shared nylon bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Invyr Holy Panda distinguish themselves through their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, known for its stiffer properties that contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch enhances the typing experience by creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound, ideal for users looking for a precise and tactile feel. Although both switches have similar top housings made of polycarbonate, the differentiation in their bottom housings may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel during typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Invyr Holy Panda comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow emphasizing a sharper, crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Holy Panda provides a similar experience with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, promoting a deep and round sound suitable for those seeking a softer typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience for enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Holy Panda's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Holy Panda for a more robust typing experience. In essence, while the actuation force may differ between the two switches, their bottom out force remains the same, allowing for similar results in terms of typing comfort and responsiveness.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them identical in that aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will get a similar amount of key travel. This can result in a consistent typing experience across both switches, as the distance the keys travel from the top to the bottom is the same. Overall, both switches offer a standard key travel distance, providing a reliable and consistent typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Yellow linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" sound profile, creating a pronounced auditory feedback that is unmatched in the tactile switch category. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow leaning towards a higher pitch and the Holy Panda delivering a more tactile and resonant sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel thanks to its refined finish or factory lubing. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a snappy and responsive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow focuses on a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Holy Panda emphasizes a pronounced tactility and firm actuation force for a more dynamic keystroke.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Invyr Holy Panda switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a higher-pitched sound and a creamy typing feel, while the Holy Panda delivers a bright clack sound and an invigorating tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a smoother linear typing experience with G Pro 3.0 Yellow or a more tactile and responsive feel with the Holy Panda switch. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches is key in finding the perfect match for your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile with a polished and creamy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bright "clack" sound with accentuated feedback, moderate actuation force, and a snappy, invigorating feel, the Holy Panda would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.