Invyr Holy Panda vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, to the Cherry MX Black, a linear switch, it becomes apparent that each offers a unique typing experience. The Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black is known for its classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile. While the Holy Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the MX Black is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Stiff'. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Cherry MX Black, it is clear that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so users can expect a similar typing experience in this aspect with both switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Holy Panda uses polycarbonate while the Cherry MX Black uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Holy Panda creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. This means that users can expect a different sound profile when typing on these switches, with the Holy Panda offering a sharper sound compared to the Cherry MX Black.
Overall, the choice between the Invyr Holy Panda and the Cherry MX Black will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Holy Panda will provide a sharper and more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Cherry MX Black will offer a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its nylon top and bottom housing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics based on their housing materials, making them suitable for different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Holy Panda has a unique actuation force of None grams, making it a very light switch, while the MX Black requires 60 grams of force for actuation. On the other hand, the Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the MX Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Holy Panda for a more comfortable typing experience, especially for extended periods of use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When it comes to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, both switches offer a similar experience to the user. The tactile feedback of the Holy Panda and the smooth keystrokes of the MX Black will feel similar in terms of travel distance, providing a comfortable typing or gaming experience for the user. Whether you choose the Holy Panda or the MX Black, you can expect a consistent travel distance and a reliable performance from either switch.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Holy Panda is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance that is unmatched in the tactile switch category. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black offers a low-pitched sound profile, with a classic textured smoothness that provides a deep sound when typing. Depending on your personal preference, the Holy Panda's sharp tactility may result in a slightly louder typing experience compared to the quieter and more subtle sound of the Cherry MX Black.
In terms of feel, the Holy Panda offers an invigorating and sharp tactile sensation with a snappy and responsive feedback, creating an immersive typing experience that is both pronounced and firm. The accentuated tactility of the Holy Panda falls between being too subtle or too overwhelming, making it a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black provides a textured and stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. The smoothness of the Cherry MX Black may appeal to typists who prefer a more controlled and consistent typing experience.
In conclusion, if you enjoy a tactile switch experience with pronounced feedback and a bright sound, the Invyr Holy Panda would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a low-pitched sound and a textured feel that requires a bit more force to type on, the Cherry MX Black may suit your preferences better. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style to determine which switch would be the ideal fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch or the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Holy Panda is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and stiff linear switch with a heavy bottom out force, the MX Black may be more to your liking. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what type of feel and sound you prefer before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Holy Panda and MX Black switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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