Invyr Holy Panda vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it's clear that each offers a distinct typing experience. The Holy Panda is renowned 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 NovelKeys Cream offers a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a smoother keystroke. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal 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
70g
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
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 Cream, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Cream's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their own advantages in terms of sound, with polycarbonate being stiffer and resonant, and POM having a more pleasing and unique sound quality. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while POM provides a sleek and modern look.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Cream's POM bottom housing, which also offers a deep and muted sound profile. Both materials excel in absorbing sound and creating a more pleasant typing experience, with nylon being known for its classic switch housing material properties and POM providing a unique and pleasing sound quality.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Invyr Holy Panda and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches allows for a balanced sound profile that is both sharp and deep, crisp and muted. While the top housing materials influence the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing materials impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite their differences, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch both fall into the medium-heavy category when it comes to bottom out force. The Holy Panda has a slightly lighter actuation force at None grams compared to the Cream's 55 grams. This means the Holy Panda may feel slightly easier to press initially. However, both switches require a bottom out force of 67 grams and 70 grams, respectively, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, some may find the Holy Panda more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter actuation force, while others may prefer the Cream for a more solid and substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for different preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of the feel and feedback when typing or gaming. This makes them a good choice for those who prefer a consistent typing experience.
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 Cream 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 Cream 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 is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a blend of pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a deep sound profile that is described as low-pitched and resonant, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda is characterized as having an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating an immersive typing sensation. The switches are described as accented, snappy, and offering a high feedback intensity. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream switches are described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. Some users may appreciate the textured feel of these switches, while others may prefer a smoother typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Holy Panda tactile switch stands out for its sharp tactility and bright sound profile, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a heftier typing experience with a deep and resonant sound. Both switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Depending on your typing style and personal preferences, you can expect a satisfying and immersive typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are someone who values a sharp tactility and a distinct "clack" sound with each keystroke, the Holy Panda may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before making a decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different types of keyboard enthusiasts.
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