Invyr Holy Panda vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, and the KTT Lightning, a linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, offering a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. With pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, it appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts seeking a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning is prized for its speed and responsiveness, making it a top choice for competitive gaming where split-second decisions matter. It provides a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile that sets it apart from other linear switches. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Lightning, we find that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches where sound quality is a priority. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switches.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the material used for their bottom housings. The Holy Panda features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Lightning also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics as the Holy Panda. Both switches benefit from the properties of nylon, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Holy Panda and the Lightning contributes significantly to the sound profiles of these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housings of both switches create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced sound experience when typing, with each material playing a distinct role in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of weight. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel, whereas the Lightning is lighter with a bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the Holy Panda is unknown, while the Lightning requires 43 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke. In terms of preference, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Holy Panda due to its heavier bottom out force, while those looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the Lightning. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that the KTT Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the Holy Panda features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Holy Panda provides a deeper key press experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Lightning switch offers a shallower travel distance which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique advantages, with the Holy Panda emphasizing depth and the Lightning focusing on speed.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 Invyr Holy Panda is best known for its sharp tactility that produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a blend of pronounced feedback and resonant acoustics. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is described as having a clacky sound profile that offers a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, making it suitable for fast-paced typing scenarios where milliseconds can make a difference. Both switches provide distinct and crisp sound profiles, with the Holy Panda leaning towards a more resonant and feedback-focused experience compared to the Lightning's emphasis on speed and responsiveness.
When it comes to feel, the Invyr Holy Panda switch is renowned for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a medium-tactile experience that is not overwhelming but still provides a pronounced tactile bump with each keypress. This results in a snappy and reactive typing sensation that immerses the user in their keystrokes. Conversely, the KTT Lightning switch is characterized by a subtle and polished feel, with a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel and a smooth key travel thanks to its refined finish. The Lightning switch aims to provide a comfortable and smooth typing experience suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda and KTT Lightning switches offer contrasting subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The Holy Panda excels in providing a tactile and resonant typing experience with pronounced feedback, while the Lightning prioritizes speed and slickness with a clacky sound profile and a subtle, polished feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing habits, users can expect satisfying results with either switch option, as they cater to different preferences and priorities in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback with each keystroke, the Holy Panda with its medium-heavy bottom out force and sharp tactility may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and a light typing feel, the Lightning with its lighter bottom out force and slick type feel may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value tactile feedback or speed in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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