Invyr Holy Panda vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Black, a linear switch. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black doesn't have a specific standout feature but offers a smooth linear typing experience. While the Holy Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Dustproof Black falls into a more neutral category. If you prefer a switch with pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, the Holy Panda may be the way to go. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 Dustproof Black, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common material for the top housing, the Holy Panda incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the shared polycarbonate top housing material, the differences in the bottom housing between the Holy Panda and Dustproof Black significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda offers a softer material that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Black creates a duller and rounder sound due to its sound absorption properties. This distinction highlights how the bottom housing material can greatly influence the typing experience and sound quality of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Black will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda delivers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Dustproof Black's duller and rounder sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound is crucial for enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboard switches for a tailored typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that they offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces. The Holy Panda has a lighter actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Dustproof Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Holy Panda has a medium-heavy 67-gram bottom out force, whereas the Dustproof Black is heavier at 80 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Holy Panda more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the heavier Dustproof Black. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience, with the 4mm travel distance providing just the right amount of tactile feedback and responsiveness. Whether you choose the Holy Panda or the Dustproof Black, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing feel.
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 Dustproof Black 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 known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a unique and pronounced acoustic resonance that tactile switch enthusiasts appreciate. The Dustproof Black sound qualities are unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda is described as having an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback that creates a medium tactile experience with a prominent amount of tactility. This blend of characteristics gives a tactile typing sensation that is engaging and responsive. The feel qualities of the Dustproof Black are unknown, but it is safe to say that if it offers a similar tactile experience to the Holy Panda, users can expect comparable results in terms of typing feedback.
In conclusion, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is revered for its sharp tactility, satisfying sound profile, and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, while details on sound and feel are unknown, may offer a different typing experience. It is essential for newcomers to consider personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience when choosing between these switches to ensure an enjoyable and satisfying mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Holy Panda if you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, sharp tactility, and a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound with each keystroke. The Holy Panda provides a blend of pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance that stands unmatched in the world of tactile switches. On the other hand, opt for the Dustproof Black if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a linear switch without any specific standout qualities. The Dustproof Black may be suitable for those who prioritize a consistent and smooth typing experience without the distraction of tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
Mentioned in this article
