Invyr Holy Panda vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the tactile Invyr Holy Panda and the linear Dareu Sky POM can be a tough decision. 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 Sky POM stands out for its premium quality at a more accessible price point, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force that appeals to linear switch users. While both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, diving deeper into their specific attributes will help you determine the best switch for your typing experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Invyr Holy Panda and the Dareu Sky POM both feature polycarbonate top housings, which lead to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. However, the Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the differences in material choices between the two switches, catering to different preferences for sound and aesthetics.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Holy Panda and the Sky POM utilize nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This similarity in bottom housing material results in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile between the two switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch may differ slightly due to any potential variations in design or construction between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Invyr Holy Panda and the Dareu Sky POM plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound, the contrasting polycarbonate and POM top housings contribute to distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound, aesthetics, and typing feel.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium to heavy typing experience, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams, offering a lighter touch for typing, but the bottom out force is not known. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Sky POM switch, while those who prefer a heavier typing experience may lean towards the Holy Panda switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Holy Panda's travel distance is slightly longer than the Sky POM's. A 0.2 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in feel and response time. Gamers may prefer the Holy Panda for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more comfortable and satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, those looking for a faster response time may lean towards the Sky POM with its shorter travel distance. Both switches offer a balance between depth and responsiveness, so 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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 its sharp tactility that produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, typically featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Holy Panda providing a more pronounced and tactile feedback through its acoustic resonance, while the Sky POM offers a smoother and gentler typing experience in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a medium tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle but provides a prominent amount of tactility. These qualities result in an immersive typing sensation that is responsive and reactive. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences, with the Holy Panda emphasizing sharp tactility and the Sky POM focusing on a buttery and smooth typing feel.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp tactility and pronounced feedback with a satisfying "clack" sound, appealing to tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Sky POM stands out for its premium quality at an accessible price point, offering a smooth and gentle actuation force with a low-pitched sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, enthusiasts can choose between the sharp tactility of the Holy Panda or the buttery smoothness of the Sky POM for their ideal typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a highly tactile and responsive switch with a sharp and invigorating feel, the Holy Panda might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound, then the Sky POM could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing sensation.
Mentioned in this article
