Invyr Holy Panda vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Red offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" sound with each keystroke, making it ideal for tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red doesn't boast any specific standout features but is known for its smooth linear feel. If you appreciate 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Red, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material also allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Holy Panda uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar characteristics to the Holy Panda in terms of sound profile.
Despite both switches sharing a polycarbonate top housing, the nylon bottom housings of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Dustproof Red play a significant role in determining the overall sound experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of a mechanical switch.
When it comes to the physical feel of typing on switches with different housing materials, the bottom housing's impact is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split between the top and bottom housings allows for a dynamic typing experience that can be tailored to suit individual preferences. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and Outemu Dustproof Red offer distinct qualities that cater to a variety of typing styles.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Dustproof Red, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Dustproof Red is 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Holy Panda is unknown. In terms of weight, the Dustproof Red is the lighter option, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Holy Panda offers a medium-heavy bottom out force, ideal for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer different levels of force, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing comfort and key response. Ultimately, users can achieve similar results with either switch based on their individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Holy Panda and Dustproof Red switches will provide similar results when typing or gaming. Overall, both switches offer a similar tactile experience with a standard travel distance, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a certain key 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 Red 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 known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is described as offering an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Furthermore, it is classified as an accented switch, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. On the other hand, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is not provided, making it hard to compare the two switches on this aspect.
In conclusion, the Invyr Holy Panda switch is revered for its unique tactile experience, sharp tactility, and satisfying sound profile, making it a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. While the Outemu Dustproof Red switch lacks specific information on sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can provide a enjoyable typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a sharp tactile bump and a satisfyingly bright sound, then the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its pronounced feedback and medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provide a tactile typing experience that is unmatched. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke and a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, then the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a strong tactile bump and bright clack sound or a smoother keystroke with a medium bottom out force. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.