Invyr Holy Panda vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Ink Yellow, a linear switch. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, offering a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke that tactile switch enthusiasts love. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow provides a shorter travel distance and a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, boasting a smooth and pleasant clackiness. The Holy Panda is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', whereas the Ink Yellow is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately depends on your 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Ink Yellow, one key difference is found in the top housing. The Holy Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the Ink Yellow utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is satisfyingly clacky. While both materials aim to deliver a clear and resonant sound profile, the types of sound they produce may cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Holy Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing which brings about a deep and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow employs its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound as the top housing. Both bottom housings contribute significantly to the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the Holy Panda offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Yellow's perceived clackiness.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Ink Yellow serve to enhance the sound profile of the switches, their differences lie in the specific characteristics they bring to the table. The Holy Panda's use of polycarbonate and nylon results in a sharper and deeper sound profile, while the Gateron Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend offers a pointed and high-pitched sound. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with RGB lighting capabilities or a satisfyingly clacky sound, both switches provide unique options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking top-tier sound quality.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch have similar bottom out forces at 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. However, the Holy Panda does not have a specified actuation force while the Ink Yellow has an actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Ink Yellow requires a slightly lighter force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Holy Panda. When it comes to weight preference, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Gateron Ink Yellow for a more effortless typing experience, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the Holy Panda for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Holy Panda on the longer end and the Ink Yellow on the shorter end. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Holy Panda. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Holy Panda is known for its sharp tactility that produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow is described as having a neutral sound profile with a clacky characteristic, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, you can expect different sound experiences from each switch.
In terms of feel, the Holy Panda is praised for its pronounced feedback, sharp tactile bump, and snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. It offers an accented tactile experience that falls between being overwhelming and subtle. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow provides a mild typing experience with a smooth and polished feel. With a shorter travel distance, it offers a comfortable middle-ground typing experience for those looking for something between a laptop and standard mechanical keyboard feel.
Considering the available information, the Holy Panda and the Gateron Ink Yellow offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. If you are looking for a tactile switch with pronounced feedback and a bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and polished typing experience with a shorter travel distance and a neutral sound profile, the Gateron Ink Yellow would be a suitable option. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your specific typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you value a sharp tactility and a louder "clack" with each keystroke, then the Holy Panda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize tactility or smoothness in your keyboard switches.
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