Invyr Holy Panda vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are both top contenders in the tactile switch category. The Holy Panda is celebrated for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" sound with each keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks, thanks to its unique two-staged spring design. While the Holy Panda is known for its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring boasts a variety of characteristics such as being clacky, high-pitched, bouncy, and stepped. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we can see that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, where the Holy Panda differs is in its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile throughout the switch.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Holy Panda and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches prioritize a sharp and crisp sound profile through their use of polycarbonate in the top housing. This creates a consistent auditory experience when pressing down on the keys. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, with the former potentially providing a deeper and more muted bottom-out sound. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) switch may result in a more pronounced sound upon key release, compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda.
Overall, the choice between the Invyr Holy Panda and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing to produce a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing feel and sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda or a consistent clear and resonant sound from the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring at 55 grams and the Holy Panda having an unspecified actuation force. In terms of weight, the Holy Panda is heavier than the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may find the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is the same at 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a similar key feel in terms of the distance traveled when pressing down on a key. The shorter distance allows for quick and responsive typing, while the longer distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Overall, whether you choose the Holy Panda or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can expect a consistent travel distance and a smooth typing experience.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 producing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, thanks to its sharp tactility and pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Holy Panda leaning towards a brighter and more resonant tone, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring delivers a sharper and more percussive sound.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is characterized by its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating an immersive typing sensation. The switch offers a pronounced tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress, along with a snappy and responsive feel. Similarly, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp and accented tactile experience, with a notable amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the longer two-staged spring in the Shadow switch provides a snappy and bouncy feel, giving a lively sensation while typing.
Overall, while both switches offer a unique tactile experience tailored to different preferences, the Holy Panda switch excels in providing a bright and resonant sound with a sharp tactile feedback, ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a pronounced and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a snappier and more percussive sound profile, coupled with a medium-high level of tactility that is complemented by its bouncy and lively feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can cater to your desired typing experience, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable time spent at your keyboard.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prioritize a sharp tactility with a satisfyingly bright "clack" and pronounced feedback, the Holy Panda may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with medium-high tactility and deep, resonating thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for feedback intensity, sound profile, and overall typing feel. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, so choose the one that resonates with your preferences the most.
Mentioned in this article
