Invyr Holy Panda vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Invyr Holy Panda and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, providing a silky smooth type feel without being overly polished. While the Holy Panda is characterized as "Accented," "Invigorating," "Sharp," and "Snappy," the Semi-Silent Linear is described as "Subdued," "Neutral," "Mild," "Snappy," "Buttery," and "Polished." Each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for RGB lighting in switches. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches suggest that users can expect a similar sound profile and overall feel when typing.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Holy Panda and Semi-Silent Linear feature nylon housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different top housings, the similarities in the bottom housing material of these switches indicate that users can experience a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and resonance.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials are split between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the nuances of each housing material can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that the Holy Panda requires a slightly heavier bottom out force at 67 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's 62 grams, making the Holy Panda the heavier of the two. However, both switches have an unknown actuation force, which means that in terms of triggering a keystroke, they may offer a similar experience. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as a lighter switch like the Semi-Silent Linear may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions, while a heavier switch like the Holy Panda may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Holy Panda has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Holy Panda. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their travel distances, but 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Invyr Holy Panda switch is known for its sharp tactility that produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as having a subdued and whisper-quiet topping-out sound, while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear provides a more subtle and subdued sound signature compared to most switches, making it ideal for those looking for a quiet typing experience. In terms of feel, the Holy Panda switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel, creating an immersive typing experience. The Semi-Silent Linear switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and buttery feel with a smooth and uniform typing sensation. Both switches are described as having a snappy feel, providing a responsive typing experience.
Overall, the Holy Panda and Semi-Silent Linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holy Panda switch is best suited for tactile switch enthusiasts who prefer a sharp and pronounced feedback, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch is ideal for those who prioritize a more subdued and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a more tactile and sharp typing experience, the Holy Panda switch may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great choice. Whichever switch you choose, both will provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp tactility for a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, the Invyr Holy Panda would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a semi-silent sound profile, along with a silky smooth type feel, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be the ideal option for you. Consider your preferences for feel, sound, and actuation force when choosing between these two switches to find the one that suits your typing style and preferences best. Ultimately, both the Holy Panda and Semi-Silent Linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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