Invyr Holy Panda vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and the TKC Kiwi both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Kiwi is designed to enhance the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, accompanied by a snappy sound profile for an immersive feel. While the Holy Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Kiwi falls under 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers its unique benefits, so ultimately the choice between the two would depend on 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and TKC Kiwi switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Holy Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing, which offers a very bright sound signature. The use of polycarbonate in the Holy Panda results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi produces resonant clacks when typing. Despite their differences, both materials are known for enhancing the sound quality of switches, making them popular choices for enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Holy Panda utilizes a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing offers a bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks when typing. While nylon and UHWMPE differ in their sound characteristics, both materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound of the switches. The contrast between the deeper sound of the nylon bottom housing in the Holy Panda and the bright sound of the UHWMPE bottom housing in the Kiwi adds diversity to the typing experience for users who appreciate nuanced sound profiles.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Holy Panda and Kiwi switches, it's evident that each component contributes distinct qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The impact of the different housing materials can be felt when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in customizing the typing experience. Whether opting for the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Holy Panda or the bright sound of UHWMPE in the Kiwi, enthusiasts can expect a customized sound experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch both have a bottom out force of 67 grams, making them medium-heavy switches in terms of the force needed to fully press the key. However, the Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it does not require any specific force to trigger a keystroke, while the Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams. This makes the Kiwi the lighter option in terms of the force needed to register a keypress. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter force can be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier force can provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the TKC Kiwi, while those looking for a heavier bottom out force may gravitate towards the Invyr Holy Panda.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when typing on a keyboard equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent and similar feel in terms of key travel. The 4 mm travel distance provides a satisfying tactile feedback while typing, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Whether it's the Holy Panda or the Kiwi, users can enjoy a smooth and consistent typing experience with the travel distance of these switches.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 is best known for its sharp tactility and bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a unique and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches offer a more low-pitched and neutral sound profile, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switches are accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a distinct tactile feedback and a reactive typing sensation that is immersive and enjoyable. In contrast, the Kiwi switches provide a stepped, accented, and polished feel, with a smooth and refined typing experience due to factory lubing and reduced friction. These switches offer a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Holy Panda switches excel in sharp tactility and pronounced feedback with a bright sound profile, while the Kiwi switches focus on a more neutral sound with a polished and smooth typing feel. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, but depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch based on the unique qualities they bring to the table.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a sharp tactility with pronounced feedback and a bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press with a snappy sound profile and a smooth, factory-lubed typing experience, the Kiwi switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific characteristics that appeal to you the most.
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