Invyr Holy Panda vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Iceberg offer distinct experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Iceberg from Aflion boasts a smooth profile and a unique two-stage spring design for a fulfilling typing experience. While the Holy Panda is favored for its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, the Iceberg stands out for its smoothness and subtle feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Iceberg both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches if RGB lighting is a priority. However, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the Holy Panda uses a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound on the Holy Panda.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the Holy Panda and the Iceberg share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches benefit from the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound profile. The use of polycarbonate is not only functional but also adds an aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of sound quality and overall performance when it comes to the top housing of these switches.
When it comes to the physical experience of typing on these switches, the differences in bottom housing materials become more apparent. The nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda results in a unique typing experience that focuses on a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the duller and rounder sound produced by the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is a key factor in distinguishing the typing experience between these two switches, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Iceberg has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. The actuation force for the Iceberg is 37 grams, but the Holy Panda's actuation force is unknown. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter switch can lead to longer typing sessions, perfect for work or gaming, while a heavier switch can provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in a consistent typing or gaming experience across both switches. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance, providing a satisfying tactile or linear feedback depending on personal preference. Overall, whether you choose the Holy Panda or the Iceberg, you can expect a similar travel distance and typing experience from either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Aflion Iceberg has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iceberg for $3.07.
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 Holy Panda switch is well-known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a sharp tactility and pronounced feedback that resonates with enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch is described as being clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the Holy Panda may cater more towards those who prefer a distinct and resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is praised for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating a highly responsive and immersive typing sensation. It offers a blend of pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force that appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts. Conversely, the Iceberg switch is described as snappy and feathery, offering a light and responsive typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. While the Iceberg switch may provide a different feel compared to the Holy Panda, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique tactile feedback.
Overall, the Holy Panda and Iceberg switches provide users with distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holy Panda excels in providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" and sharp tactile feedback, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, alongside a snappy and feathery feel that caters to those looking for a lighter and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, in conclusion, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and pronounced feedback, the Invyr Holy Panda would be the ideal choice for you. The Holy Panda offers a sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch would be more suitable for you. The Iceberg provides a satisfying smoothness and a two-stage spring for a fulfilling typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for feedback intensity and actuation force to ensure an immersive typing sensation tailored to your liking.
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