Invyr Holy Panda vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch well-known for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, is a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the KTT Rose, a linear switch, stands out for its progressive springs that offer a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. While the Holy Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Rose is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the KTT Rose switches are quite similar in terms of both the top and bottom housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, there are some subtle differences between the Holy Panda and the KTT Rose switches. The Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing may produce a slightly different sound profile compared to the Rose, given the specific design and construction of the switch. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to that of the Rose, even though both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, whether using the Invyr Holy Panda or the KTT Rose switches, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience due to their shared housing materials. Both switches offer a combination of sharp, high-pitched sound from the polycarbonate top housing and a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have similar bottom out forces of 67 grams and 63.5 grams respectively, both falling in the medium-heavy range. However, the actuation force of the Holy Panda is unspecified, whereas that of the Rose is also not provided. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the Holy Panda for its potentially lighter actuation force, which could result in a more effortless typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the KTT Rose may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing or gaming experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches would ultimately depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a similar tactile feedback and keypress depth. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a comfortable typing experience without requiring excessive force to actuate the keys. Overall, whether using the Holy Panda or the Rose switch, typists can expect a consistent and smooth typing experience due to their matching travel distances.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 best known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance that is unmatched among tactile switches. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone that provides a unique typing experience akin to listening to bassy raindrops. Depending on personal preference, the Holy Panda will offer a more pronounced and sharp sound, while the Rose switch will provide a more mellow and neutral typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is characterized by its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. This creates a tactile sensation that is both immersive and responsive, offering a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. In contrast, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with gentle characteristics that fall into a safe middle-ground zone. The smooth and refined finish of the Rose switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it approachable to most users.
Overall, the Holy Panda and KTT Rose switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holy Panda provides a sharp and pronounced tactile feedback with a bright "clack" sound, while the Rose switch offers a more mellow and neutral sound profile paired with a gentle and polished typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced and sharp tactile feedback or a more mellow and neutral typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch or the KTT Rose linear switch, you should think about your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a switch with a sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a bright "clack" sound, then the Holy Panda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more gentle typing experience, a smooth finish, and a low-pitched sound, then the Rose switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for both feel and sound when typing.
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