Invyr Holy Panda vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch. The Holy Panda stands out 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 Dustproof Blue from Outemu doesn't have a standout feature in its description but is known for its clicky sound when pressed. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, with the Holy Panda being more accentuated, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, while the Dustproof Blue has a quieter typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The key difference between the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Blue lies in the type of material used for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances the resonance of the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for an added aesthetic appeal.
While the top housing of both switches remains the same with polycarbonate material, the differentiation comes in the bottom housing material. The Holy Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile but with a slightly different tactile feel.
In understanding how the housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. The top housing, on the other hand, plays a larger role in the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, while the Invyr Holy Panda and Outemu Dustproof Blue share similarities in their housing materials, the slight variations in their design can result in differences in typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Blue requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Holy Panda's unspecified force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Holy Panda is slightly heavier at 67 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 65 grams. In terms of weight, the Holy Panda would provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Dustproof Blue would be lighter and more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Overall, both switches offer a medium-heavy feel with a difference in the actuation force, making them suitable for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be noted that both switches offer a consistent amount of travel for users to experience when typing or gaming. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress feel regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Holy Panda or the Dustproof Blue, you can expect to have a satisfying typing experience with a reliable travel distance.
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 Blue 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 switch is renowned for its sharp tactility that produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a unique acoustic resonance that appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is not specified, but it can be assumed that the clicky nature of the switch would result in a distinct clicking sound. The actual sound produced by both switches will also depend on the type of keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming yet still provides a noticeable feedback with each key press. This blend of qualities creates an immersive typing experience that is both responsive and enjoyable for users. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is not specified, so it is unknown how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of pronounced feedback, sharp tactility, and distinct sound profile, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the specific sound profile and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch are not provided, it can be assumed that it offers a satisfying clicking sound and a tactile typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so choosing between them would ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider the following guidelines: choose the Holy Panda if you prioritize a sharp tactile feedback, pronounced feedback, and a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. The Holy Panda offers a unique typing experience that appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, opt for the Dustproof Blue if you prefer a clicky switch without the need for a specific tactile response. The Dustproof Blue offers a lighter bottom out force and a delightful clicky sound with each key press. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for tactility and sound in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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