Invyr Holy Panda vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Purple Star. The Holy Panda is widely recognized for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. As an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy switch, it appeals to tactile enthusiasts looking for pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the Purple Star stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Categorized as mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press, it's the preferred choice for light typists seeking comfort and ease. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Purple Star, we see that the Holy Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the Purple Star has a POM top housing. The polycarbonate material of the Holy Panda creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Purple Star produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to individuals who prefer a softer typing sound. Despite their differences, both materials offer a unique sound profile, providing users with options based on their sound preference.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Holy Panda features a nylon bottom housing that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Similarly, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and muted sound, aligning with the sound profile created by its POM top housing. Both bottom housing materials cater to users looking for a quieter typing experience with a more subdued sound profile.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that each material brings its own unique characteristics to the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. As such, users can choose between the sharper and crisper sound of the Holy Panda with its polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and more muted sound of the Purple Star with its POM housing, based on their personal preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Purple Star has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the Holy Panda is not specified, but it is likely to be higher than the Purple Star's 43 grams due to the tactile nature of the switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Star for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback may opt for the Holy Panda for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Star for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may favor the Holy Panda. Both switches offer different experiences due to their slightly varying travel distances, and each will cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the Holy Panda is best known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a unique and pronounced feedback that resonates clearly. On the other hand, the Purple Star is characterized by a low-pitched sound signature, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is gentle on the ears. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the sharp and distinct sound of the Holy Panda or the softer and more neutral sound of the Purple Star.
In terms of feel, the Holy Panda is celebrated for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, giving users a snappy and reactive typing experience that is both immersive and engaging. With a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, the Holy Panda strikes a balance between feedback intensity and comfort. In contrast, the Purple Star is known for its mild and easy-to-press typing feel, offering a buttery smooth experience ideal for light typists. The light actuation force of the Purple Star ensures effortless and comfortable typing, reducing fatigue during extended use.
Considering all the available information, the Invyr Holy Panda and KTT Purple Star switches offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holy Panda excels in providing sharp tactility and a bright acoustic resonance, the Purple Star prioritizes smoothness and ease of typing with its low-pitched sound profile and gentle actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel. Both switches guarantee a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics, ensuring that users will achieve similar results that cater to their specific preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who values a high level of tactility and enjoys a pronounced feedback with every keystroke, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch would be the perfect choice for you. The sharp and invigorating feel of these switches, paired with their medium-heavy bottom out force, will provide you with a satisfying and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you are a light typist who prefers a smoother and easier typing experience with minimal force required, then the KTT Purple Star linear switch would be the ideal option for you. With their light 50g bottom out force and buttery smooth feel, these switches offer a comfortable and effortless typing experience that is perfect for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize tactility or smoothness in your typing experience.
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