Invyr Holy Panda vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and the SP-Star Polaris Purple are two popular choices in the tactile switch category. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, bright "clack" sound, and pronounced feedback, making it a favorite amongst tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out for its big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the Holy Panda is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Polaris Purple is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. If you're looking for a switch that offers a satisfyingly bright feedback, the Holy Panda might be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a more subtle and polished typing experience with a big tactile bump, the Polaris Purple could be the perfect fit. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to a sharper and clearer sound.
While both the Holy Panda and the Polaris Purple share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on a switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in each switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique properties. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound, the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound quality, whereas the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a crisper sound profile. Understanding the impact of each housing material on the sound and feel of a switch can help enthusiasts make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of None grams. However, their bottom out force differs slightly, with the Holy Panda requiring 67 grams and the Polaris Purple also requiring 67 grams. This means that both switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience, with a substantial push feel but not overly strenuous. In terms of weight, both switches offer a balanced typing experience that is suitable for both work and gaming purposes, allowing users to type for extended periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to other factors such as feel, sound, or price, as their actuation and bottom out forces are similar.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them both equally responsive to keystrokes. This means that you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience when using either switch. Their travel distance of 4mm provides a comfortable amount of travel for typing and gaming purposes, allowing for efficient and accurate keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a consistent travel distance, making them great options for those looking for tactile switches with a 4mm 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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, due to its sharp tactility and pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is described as having a snappy sound profile with a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Holy Panda is likely to provide a louder and more pronounced typing experience compared to the Polaris Purple, which may be a bit more subtle.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda offers a range of descriptors including "accented," "invigorating," "sharp," and "snappy," all pointing to a switch that provides a tactile typing sensation that is both immersive and responsive. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is described as "mild" and "polished," indicating a more gentle and refined typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground zone. While both switches offer a tactile bump, the Holy Panda is likely to offer a more pronounced and sharp tactile feel compared to the Polaris Purple, which may be smoother and more gentle in comparison.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among tactile switch enthusiasts. The Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp, loud, and tactile typing experience, while the Polaris Purple offers a more gentle, polished typing sensation. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference for a stronger, more pronounced tactile feel with the Holy Panda, or a smoother, more refined typing experience with the Polaris Purple. Regardless of your choice, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying tactile typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you are looking for a switch with sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a big tactile bump, snappy sound profile, and a more neutral feel, the Polaris Purple might be the better option. Ultimately, your preference for feedback intensity, actuation force, and typing sensation will guide you towards the switch that best suits your needs.
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