Invyr Holy Panda vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Red, a linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance while typing, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is known for its smooth linear feel with no tactile bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a consistent keystroke without any distractions. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Red, both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. In terms of aesthetics and functionality, both the Holy Panda and the Red benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in their top housing.
On the other hand, the Holy Panda uses a nylon bottom housing, while the Outemu Red also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softness allows for sound absorption that creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may subtly influence the overall sound experience of each switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Despite this distinction, both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon in their bottom housing, enhancing the typing experience for users.
Overall, while the Invyr Holy Panda and the Outemu Red share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, these materials contribute differently to the sound profiles of each switch. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Holy Panda results in a unique sound experience, with the stiffer polycarbonate creating a clearer sound on top while the softer nylon produces a deeper sound at the bottom. In comparison, the Outemu Red offers a similar sound profile due to the shared housing materials, providing users with a consistent typing experience that is both crisp and full-bodied.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is clear that the Holy Panda is the heavier of the two. The Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams, while the Red has an actuation force of 46 grams. As for bottom out force, the Holy Panda requires 67 grams, whereas the Red requires 62 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, with the Holy Panda leaning towards the heavier side. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Red for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Holy Panda for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. They are both equally suitable for those who prefer a standard 4 mm 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 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 sharp tactility which results in a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. This blend of pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance creates a unique auditory experience that many tactile switch enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Red switch's sound qualities are not specifically outlined, but it can be assumed that as a linear switch, it offers a quieter typing experience compared to the Holy Panda.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a balance of tactile feedback and actuation force that enhances the typing experience. The distinctive tactile bump of the Holy Panda provides a reactive and immersive sensation with each keypress. On the other hand, the feel of the Red switch is unknown, but as a linear switch, it likely offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile feedback present in the Holy Panda.
In conclusion, the Holy Panda and the Outemu Red switches offer different subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Holy Panda excels in providing a unique auditory experience with its bright "clack" sound and offers a tactile typing sensation with its pronounced feedback and sharp tactile bump. On the other hand, the Red switch, being a linear switch, likely provides a smoother and quieter typing experience without the tactile feedback present in the Holy Panda. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing style. If a user prefers a tactile and audibly satisfying typing experience, the Holy Panda would be the recommended choice, while the Outemu Red switch would suit those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a sharp, pronounced tactile feedback with a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, then the Holy Panda may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a smooth, linear keypress with no tactile bump and a lighter actuation force, the Red switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and what kind of typing experience you value most.
Mentioned in this article
