TTC Gold Brown vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the Invyr Holy Panda. The Gold Brown switches are praised for their balanced feel, offering a slight bump and moderate weightiness that provides a satisfying typing experience. With a softer sound profile compared to other switches, they fall under categories like 'Neutral' and 'Buttery'. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switches are known for their sharp tactility, producing a bright "clack" with each keystroke. These switches offer pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, categorizing them as 'Accented' and 'Sharp'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Invyr Holy Panda, we see that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as well as allowing for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while they share this attribute, the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing may provide a slightly different sound and feel compared to that of the Holy Panda due to other factors such as the design and construction of the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gold Brown and the Holy Panda feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a more subdued and rounded sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Again, while they both use the same material for the bottom housing, the typing experience may vary slightly between the two switches based on other design elements.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches showcases a blend of different sound profiles and tactile feedback. The differences in sound and feel between the two switches will likely be more pronounced due to the additional factors at play in the construction and design of each switch. However, they are likely to yield similar results in terms of creating a unique typing experience that is both enjoyable and satisfying for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both fall into the medium range, with the Gold Brown having a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Holy Panda's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Holy Panda is slightly heavier at 67 grams compared to the Gold Brown's 63 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Gold Brown may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Holy Panda may be more suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and force feedback.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, their travel distance is identical, meaning users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. In terms of travel distance, neither switch has an advantage over the other in providing a specific feel or response. Ultimately, users can expect a consistent tactile experience with either the TTC Gold Brown or the Invyr Holy Panda switches due to their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Gold Brown switch offers a balanced and soft sound profile that is generally moderate in volume, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switch provides a bright and sharp "clack" with each keystroke due to its pronounced feedback and unique construction design. While the Gold Brown switch may be more neutral and versatile in sound, the Holy Panda switch stands out for its distinctive and satisfying auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch is known for its mild and buttery typing sensation, offering a smooth and comfortable keystroke experience. This switch also has a polished finish that reduces friction and enhances key travel, providing a refined typing feel. In contrast, the Holy Panda switch is described as accented and sharp, offering a high feedback intensity and a distinct tactile bump with each keypress. The invigorating and snappy nature of the Holy Panda switch creates an immersive typing sensation that appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts seeking a responsive and engaging typing experience.
Overall, the Gold Brown and Holy Panda switches each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Gold Brown excels in providing a balanced and soft sound profile, coupled with a mild and buttery typing feel that appeals to a wider range of users. On the other hand, the Holy Panda stands out for its sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and invigorating typing experience that is sure to satisfy those seeking a more intense and engaging keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more balanced switch with a moderate weight and softer sound profile, the Gold Brown may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you crave a sharp and invigorating tactile experience with a pronounced feedback and bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda might be more up your alley. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics and it all comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking for.
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