Invyr Holy Panda vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, both of which are tactile switches. The Invyr Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfying "clack" with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana boasts high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, enhanced with two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel. While the Holy Panda is known for its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, the Jupiter Banana is recognized for its polished and creamy feel. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Banana feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches enhances their overall aesthetic appeal. However, despite their similarities in top housing material, the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing, which also absorbs more sound due to its softer nature.
While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the Holy Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Banana differ in terms of the sound profile they produce. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being a classic switch housing material that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder bottom housing materials. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, influencing the overall typing experience and sound feedback.
Overall, the differences between the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Jupiter Banana lie in their respective bottom housings, with both switches sharing similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housings. While the polycarbonate top housings create a sharp and clear sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, while the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana absorbs more sound, resulting in a slightly different sound profile. These differences highlight how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall sound, feel, and aesthetic of a mechanical switch.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in this aspect, while the Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of around 67-69 grams, falling within the medium-heavy range. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Jupiter Banana, while those seeking a slightly heavier actuation force might opt for the Holy Panda. Regardless, both switches provide a satisfying tactile typing experience with their medium-heavy bottom out forces. Overall, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding actuation force.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance compared to the Holy Panda. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to those looking for faster response times, especially for gaming. On the other hand, the Holy Panda's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more impactful and deeper keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences for key feel and response time.
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 Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 switches are known for providing a sharp and satisfying "clack" with each keystroke, offering a pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana switches by Gateron are described as producing a high-pitched and resonant sound profile when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Holy Panda switches may offer a more bright and pronounced sound, while the Jupiter Banana switches provide a sharper and crisper auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Holy Panda is noted for its sharp tactility, offering an invigorating and sharp tactile bump with each keypress. These switches provide a snappy and responsive typing experience with a moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana switches are described as polished and creamy, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. These switches offer a softer backlight effect and strong return, making for a consistent and comfortable feel during typing sessions.
Considering the information provided, the Holy Panda and Jupiter Banana tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holy Panda switches are known for their sharp tactility and bright "clack" sound, the Jupiter Banana switches provide a high-pitched and resonant sound with a smooth and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing feel. Both switches aim to provide an immersive and enjoyable typing experience to meet the needs of tactile switch enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Invyr Holy Panda or the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, you should first think about your preferences in terms of bottom out force. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Holy Panda at 67 grams and the Jupiter Banana at 69 grams. If you value a sharp tactility and pronounced feedback with a bright "clack" sound, then the Holy Panda would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and a smoother typing experience, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and acoustics or a refined and polished typing feel.
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