Invyr Holy Panda vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, and the Gateron North Pole V2, a linear switch. The Holy Panda is highly regarded for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a different typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfyingly chewy typing feel. While the Holy Panda is known for its pronounced feedback and unique acoustic resonance, the North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy and creamy typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. This means that users can expect a similar sound experience when using either of these switches, as the polycarbonate top housing will contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Holy Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, similar to the top housing, contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction in bottom housing material will impact the overall typing experience, affecting both the sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron North Pole V2 will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housing materials differ significantly in terms of the sound they produce. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda or the sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 will depend on your individual typing preferences. Regardless of which switch you choose, the unique qualities of each housing material are sure to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams, while the North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Holy Panda at 67 grams and the North Pole V2 at 65 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the North Pole V2 may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Holy Panda despite its unknown actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for lighter or heavier forces.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent key press experience in terms of the distance traveled when using either of these switches. The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard switch, as it can impact typing speed and comfort. In this case, both switches offer the same travel distance, providing users with a similar typing experience regardless of which one they choose.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 Invyr Holy Panda is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance that is unmatched by other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 offers a more subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature that is not completely silent but offers a more muted typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also depend on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Holy Panda is described as providing sharp tactile feedback, a snappy and reactive typing sensation, and firm actuation force, creating an invigorating and immersive typing experience for enthusiasts. In contrast, the North Pole V2 offers a gummy and creamy typing feel, akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or gliding effortlessly across the keys with a smooth and buttery sensation. The bouncy and polished qualities of the North Pole V2 also contribute to a lively and refined typing experience that is unique to this linear switch.
In conclusion, the Invyr Holy Panda and Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Holy Panda excels in providing sharp tactility and a satisfyingly bright sound profile, the North Pole V2 offers a more subdued and gummy typing experience with creamy and polished qualities. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for feedback intensity, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a sharper, more tactile experience, the Holy Panda would be the way to go, while opting for the North Pole V2 would provide a smoother and more muted typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making the decision between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a switch with sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a chewy and gummy typing feel, along with a muted sound profile, then the North Pole V2 would be more suited to your tastes. Consider the type of feedback and sound you prefer while typing to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, your typing experience should be the deciding factor when choosing between these two switches.
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