Invyr Holy Panda vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and the Dareu Mahjong offer distinct experiences for users. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it ideal for tactile switch enthusiasts. In contrast, the Mahjong switches boast a lively, poppy sound signature and effortless typing experience, making them a unique highlight in Dareu's lineup. While the Holy Panda offers pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, the Mahjong switches provide a bouncy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Dareu Mahjong, we see that both switches have polycarbonate top housings. These polycarbonate housings create a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile and are especially useful for RGB lighting due to their translucency. On the other hand, the Mahjong features a POK top housing, which is known for its smoothness, durability, and clacky sound profile. While both materials offer distinct advantages, the polycarbonate top housing in the Holy Panda may provide a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the POK material in the Mahjong.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with harder bottom housing materials. In this case, both the Holy Panda and the Mahjong offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile and typing experience due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housings.
Overall, while the Holy Panda and the Dareu Mahjong differ in their top housing materials (polycarbonate vs. POK), they offer a similar experience in terms of bottom housing materials (nylon). The choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, durability, and typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether it be a sharper sound profile and RGB lighting compatibility in the Holy Panda or a smooth, clacky sound and exceptional durability in the Mahjong. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and priorities when it comes to typing experience and keyboard customization.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is clear that the Holy Panda has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Mahjong's actuation force of 45 grams. The actuation force for the Holy Panda is not specified, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. The Holy Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Mahjong offers a lighter actuation force, which may be preferred by those looking for a switch that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches have their own strengths based on their weight characteristics, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their distances. The Holy Panda has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mahjong has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Holy Panda offers a slightly longer keypress, allowing for a more substantial feel when typing compared to the Mahjong. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Mahjong with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress may favor the Holy Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 that results in a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Mahjong is highlighted by a lively, poppy sound signature that enhances the typing experience. The Holy Panda offers a more distinct and pronounced feedback in terms of sound, while the Mahjong provides a more neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can complement different preferences, and the final sound outcome can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Holy Panda switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience that immerses users in each keypress. The pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force of the Holy Panda create a distinct typing sensation. In contrast, the Mahjong switch is characterized by its bouncy and mild feel, providing a more gentle typing experience with a spring-like rebound when keys are pressed. The polished finish of the Mahjong switch contributes to a smoother and refined key travel. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that can cater to different preferences, with the Holy Panda leaning towards a sharper and more responsive feel while the Mahjong offers a softer and more approachable typing experience.
Overall, the Holy Panda tactile switch excels in providing a sharp and tactile typing experience with a bright sound profile, ideal for those seeking prominent feedback and a satisfying clack. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a more neutral sound and a bouncy, mild feel that is smoother and more polished. Depending on individual preferences, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the typing experience. Whether you prefer the pronounced feedback of the Holy Panda or the gentle rebound of the Mahjong, you can expect a satisfying and immersive typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, your choice may ultimately come down to tactile preference and typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a sharp, invigorating, and snappy feel, along with a bright clack sound, the Holy Panda may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bouncy, mild, and polished feel, along with a unique color scheme and lively sound signature, the Mahjong may be more your style. Consider your typing preferences and whether you prioritize tactility or smoothness when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and unique characteristics, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your personal preferences and typing style.
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