Invyr Holy Panda vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, to the SP-Star RedBlue, a linear switch, it is evident that they offer unique typing experiences. The Holy Panda is praised for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches offer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile, making them a suitable choice for those seeking a more neutral and polished typing feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
The Invyr Holy Panda and the SP-Star RedBlue switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing effect. However, the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the RedBlue switch opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a sharper and clearer sound profile overall.
When analyzing the qualities of each housing material, it's evident that the Holy Panda and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer different sound profiles based on their housing materials. The split between polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Holy Panda results in a unique combination of sharpness and depth in its sound profile. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch's consistent use of polycarbonate provides a more uniform sharp and crisp sound throughout the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
In terms of feel and sound impact during typing, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press. The nylon bottom housing in the Holy Panda will contribute to a deeper and more resonant feel when pressing down on a key, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue will maintain a sharper and crisper sensation. Conversely, the top housing material will influence the sound produced when a key is released, with the polycarbonate in both switches offering a clear and resonant release sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel characteristics.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the RedBlue has a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In terms of actuation force, both switches have an unknown value, but the Holy Panda is likely heavier due to its heavier bottom out force compared to the RedBlue. The actuation force is crucial as it determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates how much pressure is required to fully press down the key. For those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, the RedBlue may be the better choice. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Holy Panda for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance is the same for both switches, so users can expect a similar tactile experience when typing or gaming with either switch. The 4 mm travel distance ensures a satisfying keypress that is not too shallow or too deep, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. In conclusion, both switches offer the same travel distance, providing consistent performance and feedback for users.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 that produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. This unique blend of pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance sets it apart in the tactile switch category. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that provides a relatively mellow and bass-heavy tone. The RedBlue switch is also neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, and for various environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Holy Panda switch is described as a switch with accented tactility that provides a medium tactile feedback that is invigorating and sharp. The sharp tactile bump in the Holy Panda offers a distinct and snappy typing experience, thanks to its high feedback intensity. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a mild typing experience with polished characteristics. This switch is designed to offer a gentle and approachable feel to most users, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing sensation.
Considering the available information, it's clear that the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holy Panda stands out for its sharp tactility and pronounced feedback, the RedBlue switch provides a more mellow and neutral sound profile along with a polished and mild typing experience. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Holy Panda appealing to those who seek a more intense and tactile typing experience, while the RedBlue switch is suited for users looking for a smoother and gentler feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on the individual's preferences for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch or the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who values sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, then the Holy Panda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a smooth, refined finish, the RedBlue switch could be more suitable. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel descriptors of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
