Invyr Holy Panda vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and Cherry MX Speed Silver stand out as two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Holy Panda is revered 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 MX Speed Silver is known for its rapid response and linear action, making it ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and precision in their keystrokes. While the Holy Panda offers pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, the Speed Silver boasts low spring resistance and instant triggering. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This similarity suggests that when typing on both switches, users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound quality. However, the Holy Panda utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver also uses nylon for its top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Holy Panda.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the Holy Panda's choice of polycarbonate for its top housing sets it apart from the MX Speed Silver. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboards with colorful lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver absorbs more sound and creates a different tactile and auditory experience for users. This difference in top housing materials highlights how a switch's housing material can impact not only the sound profile but also the overall aesthetics and feel of typing on the switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Cherry MX Speed Silver play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the Holy Panda stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch have different characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Holy Panda has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. In comparison, the MX Speed Silver has a light actuation force of 30 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Holy Panda will provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the MX Speed Silver will have a lighter touch for quicker keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Invyr Holy Panda. Traditional travel distances typically fall around 4.0 mm, making the Holy Panda's travel distance more in line with that standard. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Invyr Holy Panda. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their differing travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is best known for its bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a satisfying acoustic resonance that tactile switch enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is described as producing a thocky and low-pitched sound, which adds a deep and rich tone to the typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience, depending on personal preference and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is renowned for its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. This combination creates a distinct typing sensation that is both immersive and satisfying for users who prefer a tactile switch with a moderate actuation force. Conversely, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is described as textured, meaning it might have noticeable friction when pressed. This can offer a different typing experience compared to the Holy Panda, appealing to users who prefer a bit of resistance and feedback in their switches.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel descriptions of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it's evident that each switch offers a unique typing experience catered to different preferences. While the Holy Panda excels in providing sharp tactility and resonant sound, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its rapid and smooth linear action. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing style. Both switches are excellent options in their respective categories, and users can expect a high-quality typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a pronounced and sharp tactile feedback with each keystroke, along with a satisfyingly bright "clack", then the Holy Panda would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid response and instant triggering for gaming purposes, the Speed Silver switch's linear action and low spring resistance make it a top contender. Ultimately, the decision should be based on whether you value tactile feedback and acoustics or quick response times and smooth keystrokes in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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