Invyr Holy Panda vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single 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) Single Spring both stand out for their tactile feedback. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a more approachable tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, accompanied by a deep and thocky sound profile. While the Holy Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as 'Bouncy'. Each switch has its own unique qualities and appeal. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate due to its stiffness, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switches. Despite having similar top housings, the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material highlights the contrasting sound profiles between the two switches.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of the Holy Panda and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring results in distinct experiences when typing on these switches. The Nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda influences the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound profile, showcasing a different typing sensation. However, both switches share the impact of the polycarbonate top housing on the sound produced when releasing a key, maintaining a consistent element in their acoustic profiles.
Overall, while the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the differing bottom housing materials result in unique typing experiences. The Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The split in housing materials emphasizes the importance of both top and bottom components in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch, allowing enthusiasts to customize their typing experience based on their preferences.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Holy Panda has no specified actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a 48-gram actuation force and a 55-gram bottom out force, placing it in the medium-light category. The Holy Panda offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Shadow (Ink) provides a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is identical, both measuring 4 mm. This means that pressing down on keys with either of these switches will provide a similar tactile experience in terms of distance traveled. Users can expect consistent feedback and key travel whether they opt for the Holy Panda or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. The absence of a difference in travel distance ensures that typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches will yield comparable results.
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) Single 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) Single 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 is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a blend of pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a deep and thocky sound profile, creating a unique auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Holy Panda is often described as having an accented tactile feel that is not overwhelming yet provides a significant amount of tactility. It is invigorating and sharp, with a snappy and reactive typing sensation. In comparison, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like and lively feel with a lower actuation and bottom-out force for a more approachable tactility.
Considering all the available information, the Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp tactility with a bright sound profile, making it a top choice for tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a deep and thocky sound along with a bouncy tactile feel, catering to those looking for a medium level of tactility. Both switches have their unique qualities, and depending on personal preference and typing experience desired, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a more pronounced and sharp tactility that provides a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, then the Invyr Holy Panda would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility that offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, along with a deep and thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and sound preference. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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