TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages depending on the user's preferences. The Gold Red Pro is a versatile choice, offering a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. Each switch is categorized differently, with the Gold Red Pro being described as 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subtle', while the Holy Panda is labeled as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', '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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gold Red Pro and the Holy Panda both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, giving them a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these switches. However, despite this similarity in the top housing material, the switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the Gold Red Pro using nylon and the Holy Panda also using nylon. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Gold Red Pro and the Holy Panda affects the typing experience and sound produced by the switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, offering a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a dampened and rounded sound. In contrast, the top housing made of polycarbonate in both switches enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound when pressing the keys, especially noticeable when using RGB lighting.
Overall, while both the Gold Red Pro and the Holy Panda share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material, with the Gold Red Pro using nylon and the Holy Panda also using nylon. This contrast leads to a variation in sound profiles, with the Gold Red Pro offering a sharper and crisper sound due to the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing combination, while the Holy Panda provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences based on force requirements. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Holy Panda requires a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier force for their typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Holy Panda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. A 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a slightly deeper keypress, the Holy Panda may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly quicker and more responsive keypress, the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a different feel due to their travel distance, so trying them out before making a decision is recommended to ensure you get the switch that best suits your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched tone with a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for any setting. On the other hand, the Holy Panda tactile switch is known for its bright "clack" sound with pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, catering to tactile switch enthusiasts seeking a more intense auditory experience. If sound is a crucial factor for you, the Holy Panda would provide a more lively and distinctive typing sound compared to the more moderate sound of the Gold Red Pro.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and approachability with a gentle resistance. In contrast, the Holy Panda tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a more intense and reactive tactile sensation with a distinct tactile bump. If you prefer a more subtle and gentle typing feel, the Gold Red Pro would be a better choice, while the Holy Panda excels in providing a more pronounced and immersive tactile feedback.
Considering all the available information, the Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch offer distinct qualities catering to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro excels in its versatility and neutral characteristics, making it a suitable option for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Holy Panda stands out for its sharp tactility and intense feedback, appealing to tactile switch enthusiasts seeking a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a smoother and more neutral typing experience or a more pronounced and tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you're seeking a tactile switch with pronounced feedback and a satisfyingly sharp "clack" with each keystroke, the Holy Panda could be the ideal choice. The Gold Red Pro would be best suited for those who value adaptability and ease of press, while the Holy Panda would be a great option for tactile enthusiasts who enjoy a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, whichever switch you choose, both the Gold Red Pro and the Holy Panda offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing needs.
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