Invyr Holy Panda vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Orange offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfying "clack" with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the KTT Orange boasts a bouncy feel with a slick, frictionless typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile. While the Holy Panda is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Orange is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Frictionless', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Orange, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Holy Panda diverges with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound.
The differing bottom housing materials between the Holy Panda and the Orange bring distinct characteristics to each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange maintains a sharper and crisper sound that complements the top housing's qualities. This split in housing materials allows for a unique tactile and auditory experience depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it.
While both the Holy Panda and the Orange share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the variation in bottom housing materials highlights the impact each component has on the overall sound and feel of the switch. Whether it is the sharper sound profile of the Orange or the deeper sound profile of the Holy Panda, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. Ultimately, understanding the characteristics of each housing material can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Orange has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. The actuation force of the Holy Panda is not specified, while the Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams, indicating a lighter initial press. Those who prefer a heavier typing feel may lean towards the Holy Panda, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Orange. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, catering to different preferences for typing duration and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch. The Holy Panda provides a deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Orange switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking quicker response times. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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 switch is best known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Depending on your preference for sound, the Holy Panda provides a more pronounced and resonant feedback, while the Orange switch offers a smoother and quieter typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Holy Panda is acclaimed for its sharp tactile feedback that is both invigorating and snappy. The switch offers a prominent tactile bump that is sharp and distinct with each keypress. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys feel lively and offer a smooth, effortless travel with minimal resistance. Depending on your typing style and preference for tactile feedback, the Holy Panda offers a more pronounced and reactive feel, while the Orange switch provides a more fluid and bounce-like sensation.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Holy Panda and KTT Orange switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holy Panda excels in providing a bright and sharp tactile feedback with a pronounced clack sound, the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone with a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. Whether you prefer a more tactile and pronounced feedback or a smoother and quieter typing experience, both switches have their own distinct advantages. Ultimately, the choice between the Holy Panda and KTT Orange switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch or the KTT Orange linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with pronounced feedback and a sharp, snappy feel, the Holy Panda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure that you have the best mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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