Invyr Holy Panda vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, with the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The holy panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright clack with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Melodic by Gateron offers smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, combining classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with enhanced smoothness for a delightful typing experience. While the Holy Panda is characterized as sharp, invigorating, and snappy, the Melodic is defined as buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific qualities will help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Melodic feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is especially beneficial for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches ensures a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Holy Panda and the Melodic utilize nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. The nylon bottom housing of these switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a quieter and more cushioned response.
Overall, while both the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Melodic share similarities in their housing materials, such as the use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, they may offer slightly different sound profiles and typing experiences due to variations in design and construction. However, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound clarity and key feel when utilizing switches with these housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the Holy Panda has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Melodic's 60 grams. The actuation force of both switches is not specified, but they are both considered medium in terms of weight. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Melodic switch may be more suitable as it has a lower bottom out force. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a heavier switch, the Holy Panda with its higher bottom out force would be the better choice. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is an important factor to consider depending on personal typing preferences and intended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we see that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feel and actuation point despite being from different categories, tactile and clicky respectively. Therefore, whether you choose the Holy Panda or the Melodic switch, you can expect a similar level of key travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 switch is best known for its sharp tactility that provides a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as resonant and crunchy, offering a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Holy Panda switch is characterized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a tactile experience that is pronounced, firm, and responsive, creating an immersive typing sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic switch is noted for being buttery and invigorating, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. Both switches offer a tactile feedback that is signature to their design, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Melodic switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp and bright sound with pronounced feedback, while offering a tactile experience that is sharp and responsive. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch focuses on providing a resonant and crunchy sound with a smooth and buttery feel that is effortless and consistent. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a sharp tactility with pronounced feedback and bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and seek a smooth, lubricated experience with a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Melodic switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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