Invyr Holy Panda vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, to the Cherry MX Silent Red, a linear switch, it's evident that each offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Holy Panda is revered for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red maintains the classic feel of the MX Red but operates silently, perfect for those in noise-sensitive environments. While the Holy Panda is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and specific needs. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Invyr Holy Panda and Cherry MX Silent Red switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for the absorption of more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality when using either switch.
However, the Holy Panda stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and resonance, leading to a clear and resonant sound when typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, albeit with a duller and rounder tone. This difference in top housing material results in distinct sound characteristics between the two switches.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to consider how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed throughout the switch. The top housing has a significant impact on the sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. With the Holy Panda having a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, and the Cherry MX Silent Red utilizing nylon for both top and bottom housing, users can expect variations in sound and feel depending on which switch they choose to use.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a lighter switch, but its bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the MX Silent Red may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as office workers or gamers with extended sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Holy Panda may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. It is important to consider individual preferences when choosing between these switches to ensure the most comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Holy Panda. This means that the Cherry MX Silent Red will require slightly less distance to actuate compared to the Holy Panda. If you prefer a faster response time and a shallower feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more depth and a more noticeable key press, the Holy Panda with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective travel distances, so it is important to consider your personal preferences when choosing between the two.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance that is highly sought after by tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red is designed to operate silently, providing the same satisfying typing experience as the MX Red but with a significantly quieter sound profile. The Silent Red switch is described as muted, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is highly regarded for its accented and sharp tactile feedback, providing a snappy and invigorating typing experience with a firm actuation force. The switch's pronounced tactile bump is distinct and immersive, offering a satisfying typing sensation for users. In contrast, the MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, indicating a noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may appeal to some users who prefer a slightly rougher feel when typing.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda and Cherry MX Silent Red switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp and tactile typing experience with a bright sound profile, while the MX Silent Red prioritizes a silent operation with a textured feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique benefits that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you value a sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, the Holy Panda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly heftier feel with a quieter sound profile, especially suitable for noise-sensitive environments, the MX Silent Red is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether you prefer the invigorating and sharp tactile feel of the Holy Panda or the muted and textured typing experience of the MX Silent Red, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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