Invyr Holy Panda vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, also a tactile switch. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility and satisfying "clack" with each keystroke. It offers pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura boasts a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke. Its tactility strikes a delicate balance, providing a mild and neutral sound signature. If you prefer a switch with an accented and sharp feel, the Holy Panda may be your best choice. However, if you appreciate a switch that is buttery and snappy, the Purple Sakura might be more appealing to you. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The primary difference between the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura lies in their top housings' materials, which are both made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more resonant sound. Both switches will offer similar sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing, being a softer material, will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the Sarokeys Purple Sakura's equally soft nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound to create a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the similarities in their top housings, the differences in the bottom housings of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura play a significant role in their overall sound profiles. The Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Sakura's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound to produce a rounder tone. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the top housing's material will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, emphasizing the importance of both housing materials in creating a balanced typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Invyr Holy Panda and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura share polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal, their differences lie in the nylon bottom housings. The Holy Panda offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nylon bottom housing, whereas the Sakura absorbs more sound for a rounder tone. These distinctions highlight the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in influencing the overall typing experience, emphasizing the unique qualities each switch brings to the table.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch differ in several ways. The Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is unknown, while the Purple Sakura has an actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Holy Panda requires 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Purple Sakura only needs 60 grams, which is classified as medium. This means that the Purple Sakura is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Holy Panda. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Sakura would be the better option, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Holy Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the weight of a switch is an important factor to consider based on individual preferences and usage needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Holy Panda's travel distance is more on the traditional side, offering a deeper press when compared to the shallower press of the Purple Sakura. Gamers may lean towards the Purple Sakura for its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times during gameplay. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth when typing or gaming, the Holy Panda with its longer travel distance may be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and how it affects your typing or gaming experience.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Holy Panda switch is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a pronounced and resonant feedback that is cherished by tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature that is suitable for various typing environments, striking a delicate balance between tactile feedback and sound profile. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Holy Panda leaning towards a more pronounced and vibrant sound, while the Purple Sakura offers a softer and more moderate sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Holy Panda switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump, providing a sharp and invigorating typing sensation that is highly responsive and immersive. This switch offers a firm actuation force and pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, making it a favorite among tactile switch users. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch boasts a decadently buttery downstroke, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience that is gentle and approachable. With a snappy response and a moderate actuation force, the Purple Sakura switch strikes a balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort, providing a pleasant typing experience for users.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holy Panda provides a bright and resonant sound with sharp tactility and pronounced feedback, the Purple Sakura offers a mild and neutral sound with a buttery downstroke and a balanced tactile experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp, clacky tactility that provides a pronounced feedback and immersive typing experience, the Holy Panda is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a buttery and snappy feel that strikes a delicate balance of tactility, along with a mild and neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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