TTC Gold Silver vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, one must consider their unique characteristics. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, offering a smooth and swift typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out. In contrast, the Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility, providing a pronounced feedback and a bright "clack" sound. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Holy Panda stands out for its bold tactile feel and satisfying acoustics. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Invyr Holy Panda, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings. Due to the nature of polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be more prominent, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, despite using the same material for the top housing, the bottom housings differ between the two switches.
The Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience, with a clear and resonant sound upon key press and a deeper, fuller sound upon key release. On the other hand, the Holy Panda also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the Gold Silver. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience with a unique sound signature thanks to the nylon bottom housing.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Gold Silver and the Invyr Holy Panda share polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and clear sound profile, they also both utilize nylon bottom housings to provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. The combination of these housing materials in each switch results in a tactile typing experience with unique sound characteristics. Whether you choose the Gold Silver or the Holy Panda, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a distinct sound profile that sets them apart from other switches on the market.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Holy Panda is heavier at 67 grams while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unavailable. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Silver may be the better option for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, the Holy Panda offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Holy Panda requires a slightly deeper press to actuate compared to the Gold Silver. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Gold Silver due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more solid and tactile feel may opt for the Holy Panda with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, providing users with options to choose based on their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Invyr Holy Panda switch is not specified. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is praised for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience. These qualities make for a smooth and refined feel with a gentle resistance, suitable for various users. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a medium tactile experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke experience, and a resonant sound signature, making it a top choice for those seeking speed and precision in their typing. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda switch provides a unique tactile feedback, bright "clack" sound, and immersive typing sensation, catering to tactile switch enthusiasts. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing needs. Ultimately, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between the two will come down to individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid keystrokes and smooth bottom-outs with a resonant sound, the TTC Gold Silver may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you crave a tactile typing experience with a pronounced feedback and bright "clack" sound, the Invyr Holy Panda could be more to your liking. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and enjoy the unique typing experience it has to offer.