Invyr Holy Panda vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the unique qualities of each option. On one hand, the Invyr Holy Panda is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" sound with each keystroke. It is popular among tactile switch enthusiasts for its pronounced feedback and unmatched acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While both switches are characterized by their invigorating and sharp qualities, the Holy Panda is more accentuated and snappy compared to the Sage's crunchy 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Kailh Sage, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for the top housing of switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound qualities and aesthetics from both the Holy Panda and the Sage due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Holy Panda features a nylon material while the Kailh Sage also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, both switches will likely offer a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound profile generated by the use of nylon in the bottom housing. This shared material choice highlights a commonality in the sound profile of the Holy Panda and the Sage, despite differences in their top housing materials.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of the Holy Panda and the Kailh Sage results in distinct impacts on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, made of nylon for both switches, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the impact of the top housing, which is polycarbonate for both switches, will be more prominent when letting go of a key, creating a sharper and crisper sound. Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the Holy Panda and the Sage contributes to a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of None grams. However, the Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making the Sage slightly heavier. The Holy Panda is considered medium-heavy due to its bottom out force, while the Sage falls into the same category with a slightly higher bottom out force. This difference in weight can impact typing experience, with the lighter force of the Holy Panda being more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the heavier force of the Sage providing a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Holy Panda offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Sage, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the Sage provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers or anyone looking for a faster typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the desired feel when typing.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a distinctive auditory experience for the user. On the other hand, the Sage is described as having a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique auditory feedback, catering to different preferences in keyboard sound profiles.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda is recognized for its sharp tactility, providing a pronounced tactile bump with each key press. Described as invigorating and snappy, the Holy Panda offers a responsive and immersive typing experience for enthusiasts. Similarly, the Sage is also noted for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, delivering a tactile bump that is firm and distinct. Both switches offer a tactile typing sensation, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda and the Kailh Sage switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holy Panda is praised for its bright "clack" sound and sharp tactility, the Sage is known for its crunchy sound and heavy clickiness. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, with the Holy Panda offering a slightly more pronounced feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel, with both switches delivering a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback with a bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and sharp clickiness, the Sage switch might be more to your liking. Consider the feel and sound characteristics described for each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences and style. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable and comfortable.
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