Invyr Holy Panda vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that they both offer unique qualities 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 Gateron Mini i switches offer a more subtle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, making them ideal for office settings where a quieter typing experience is preferred. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing qualities. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, in terms of sound profile, both the Holy Panda and the Mini i will exhibit similar characteristics when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Holy Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Holy Panda's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Mini i's nylon top housing. This difference in materials leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile in the Holy Panda, especially when it comes to the sound produced when letting go of a key. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic advantage to the Holy Panda over the Mini i.
While both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, the contrasting materials used for the top housings of the Holy Panda and Mini i result in distinct sound profiles. The Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Mini i's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. This difference highlights the impact that housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch, depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing being utilized. Ultimately, the choice between the Holy Panda and the Mini i will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch differ significantly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Holy Panda has no specified actuation force, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it lighter in comparison to the Holy Panda, and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is also on the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gateron Mini i would be the better option. However, if a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience is preferred, the Invyr Holy Panda with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the Holy Panda has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mini i has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Holy Panda offers a deeper key press experience compared to the Mini i, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Mini i provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for increased speed and agility. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with some opting for the longer travel distance of the Holy Panda for a more tactile typing experience, while others may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Mini i for a more responsive feel.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 switch is known for its sharp and bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a distinctive and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a more muted sound profile that strikes a balance between feedback and sound, providing a quiet and professional typing experience ideal for office use. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound, with the Holy Panda appealing to those who enjoy a louder and more pronounced sound, while the Mini i is suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is characterized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a tactile sensation that is immersive and responsive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped feel, catering to those who prefer a more gentle and lightweight typing experience. While the Holy Panda offers a more intense and pronounced tactile feedback, the Mini i provides a softer and more subtle typing feel that is suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue.
In conclusion, the Invyr Holy Panda and Gateron Mini i switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel to cater to different preferences and typing environments. The Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp and bright sound with a pronounced tactile feel, ideal for tactile switch enthusiasts seeking a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i offers a more muted sound profile and a gentle typing feel, perfect for office-centric use where a quieter and more lightweight typing experience is preferred. Depending on individual preferences, both switches provide unique qualities that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the differences in bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a more pronounced feedback and bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda may be the best choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter switch with gentle tactility and a more muted sound profile, the Mini i could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics. Whether you prioritize a snappy and sharp tactile experience or a bouncy and easy-to-press typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities catered to different preferences.
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