Invyr Holy Panda vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Crystal Brown, both tactile switches. The Holy Panda is widely recognized for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright clack with each keystroke. Its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance make it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown doesn't have a standout feature, but it offers a smooth tactile experience. While the Holy Panda is categorized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, the Crystal Brown doesn't have any specific categories. However, let's delve 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
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Crystal Brown, it is clear that both switches feature polycarbonate as the top housing material. This means that both switches will share similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate adds to the visual appeal of the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in the bottom housing material. The Holy Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer properties, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When considering how the top and bottom housings affect the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will impact different aspects of the switch. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will have more influence on the sound when a key is released. This means that despite sharing similar housing materials, the Holy Panda and the Crystal Brown may still have subtle differences in sound and tactile feedback based on their respective housing designs.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. Though the actuation force is not specified for the Holy Panda, the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams. The Holy Panda offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force compared to the Crystal Brown, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter bottom out force of the Crystal Brown makes it ideal for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on the keys of either switch will result in the same level of tactile feedback and key travel. Therefore, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of travel distance from both switches. It is noteworthy that both switches offer a consistent tactile feel despite their slight differences in design and construction. Overall, whether using the Holy Panda or the Crystal Brown switch, users can rely on a 4 mm travel distance for a satisfying 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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 best known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, thanks to its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is not well documented, so it may not offer the same level of auditory satisfaction as the Holy Panda.
Moving on to feel, the Holy Panda is characterized by being accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still prominent and immersive. These features contribute to a typing experience that is both responsive and enjoyable. Unfortunately, there is limited information available on the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch, so it is uncertain if it can match the tactility and feedback of the Holy Panda.
Overall, the Holy Panda stands out for its unique blend of sharp tactility and invigorating feedback, creating a distinct typing experience cherished by tactile switch enthusiasts. While the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may offer a different tactile feel and sound profile, without clear documentation, it is difficult to compare directly to the Holy Panda. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a sharp tactile feedback with each keystroke, the Holy Panda is the way to go. The Holy Panda provides a bright "clack" sound and unmatched tactile experience that is sure to please enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value a more subdued tactile feel, the Crystal Brown may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience. Make your decision based on what feels best to you.
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