Invyr Holy Panda vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry both offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Holy Panda is famed for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, appealing to enthusiasts who value pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry boasts a very sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, providing a buttery and textured typing feel. While the Holy Panda is described as 'Accented' and 'Sharp', the Blueberry switch is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', and 'Stiff'. Each switch brings its own flair and characteristics to the table, making them ideal choices depending on individual preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, we can see that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Blueberry's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches provide a clear and resonant sound due to their respective housing materials. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying auditory experience that suits your preferences.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Holy Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Blueberry also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similarly deep and muted sound profile. Both materials absorb sound effectively, leading to a more rounded and duller sound when pressing down on the switches. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Holy Panda or the Blueberry, you can enjoy a consistent typing experience with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound.
Overall, the choice between the Holy Panda and the Blueberry ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the Holy Panda offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Blueberry provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Both switches offer a satisfying sound experience with their respective housing materials, whether it be a more resonant sound from polycarbonate or a deeper sound from POM. Ultimately, regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that there are noticeable differences between the two. The Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in this aspect, while the NovelKeys Blueberry requires 55 grams of force to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Holy Panda requires 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the Blueberry switch requires a heavier 80 grams to bottom out. This indicates that the Holy Panda is lighter in actuation force compared to the Blueberry, but heavier in bottom out force. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Holy Panda, while those seeking a heavier typing experience may opt for the NovelKeys Blueberry. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the same, both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience with a similar level of key travel, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a certain amount of feedback while typing. With their identical travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience between the two switches.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 offers a bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a unique acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches produce a lower-than-average sound frequency, with a deeper tone but not overly "thocky." Both switches offer their own distinct auditory experiences, with the Holy Panda leaning towards a sharper, more pronounced sound, while the Blueberry switches offer a clean, resonant sound profile. Your choice of keyboard and keycaps will also play a role in the overall sound produced by these switches.
Moving on to feel, the Holy Panda is praised for its sharp tactility and invigorating typing sensation, offering a blend of pronounced feedback and a snappy, responsive feel. Described as accented and sharp, these switches provide a firm actuation force that is not overwhelming but still distinct with each keypress. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are characterized as snappy and invigorating, with a buttery and textured feel. These switches offer a responsive typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke, catering to users who enjoy a tactile bump with noticeable friction.
In conclusion, both the Invyr Holy Panda and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holy Panda provides a bright "clack" and pronounced tactility, the Blueberry switches offer a deep, resonant sound with a buttery and textured typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound profile, tactility, and typing feel. Regardless of which switch you choose, each will provide a satisfying and immersive typing experience for tactile switch enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, you should assess your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump with a bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump with a lower-pitched sound profile, the NovelKeys Blueberry could be more suitable. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when making your decision.
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