KTT Glimp vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Invyr Holy Panda stand out as popular choices with their own unique characteristics. The Glimp switch is a linear switch that is known for its medium-light actuation force, providing a good balance between typing resistance and responsiveness. Its tactile feedback and satisfyingly clacky sound profile make it a great option for those seeking a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switch is a tactile switch renowned for its sharp tactility and pronounced feedback. With a bright "clack" and unparalleled acoustic resonance, it is a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts for its invigorating typing experience. Each switch is categorized differently, with the Glimp being described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', while the Holy Panda is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Invyr Holy Panda lies in their bottom housings. The Glimp utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Holy Panda also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound. This means that typing on both switches will result in a duller and rounder sound, providing a more cushioned typing experience compared to stiffer plastics.
On the other hand, both the Glimp and the Holy Panda feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is especially effective in enhancing the sound quality of switches, making it ideal for those looking for clear and resonant typing feedback. Additionally, its translucency makes it perfect for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a touch of aesthetic appeal to the overall typing experience.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, the Glimp and the Holy Panda share similar qualities in their top housing materials. Both switches provide a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to the use of polycarbonate. This means that users can expect a consistent sound experience across both switches, with the main variation in sound and feel coming from the bottom housing material. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller typing experience with nylon or a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch differ in weight. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. In comparison, the Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Glimp may be the better option. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Holy Panda would be the preferred choice. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from top to bottom. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys move when pressed. Whether choosing the Glimp linear switch or the Holy Panda tactile switch, users can expect to receive similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 KTT Glimp linear switch offers a clacky profile that produces a sharp and percussive sound with each keystroke, adding an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch does not have a specific sound description provided, but it is known for providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keypress. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Glimp being more defined as clacky and the Holy Panda offering a bright clack.
In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch provides a creamy and mild typing experience, offering a smooth sensation with a gentle touch that is approachable to most users. In comparison, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a medium tactile experience with pronounced feedback, firm actuation force, and a snappy feel. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Glimp leaning towards a smoother typing experience and the Holy Panda delivering a more intense and tactile feedback with each keypress.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy, mild typing experience, while the Holy Panda offers a bright clack sound and an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Glimp catering to those who prefer a smoother touch and the Holy Panda appealing to tactile switch enthusiasts looking for more pronounced feedback and intensity. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a satisfying tactile feedback and a fairly clacky sound profile, then the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with sharp tactility and a bright "clack" sound with each keystroke, then the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you are seeking. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns most with your typing style.
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