Invyr Holy Panda vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and Dareu Sky V3 offer two distinct typing experiences. The Holy Panda is praised for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy an invigorating and pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Sky V3 is known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision, appealing to a wider range of typing preferences. 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
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
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Dareu Sky V3, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in the design and aesthetics of the top housing, as their appearances can vary despite having the same material.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Holy Panda and the Sky V3 are made of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that can enhance the typing experience. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, the feel and sound when pressing down on the keys may differ slightly due to other factors such as switch design and keycap compatibility.
Ultimately, while the Holy Panda and the Sky V3 share similarities in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom housings, the nuances in their design and construction may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, these housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience and sound signature of mechanical switches.
Weight
Comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, one notable difference is their actuation force. The Holy Panda has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires no specified force to trigger a keystroke, while the Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams. This makes the Sky V3 a lighter option compared to the Holy Panda. On the other hand, when it comes to bottom out force, the Holy Panda requires 67 grams to fully press down, making it a medium-heavy option, while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. When looking at weight preferences, those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Holy Panda for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches cater to different preferences in typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
Both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will feel a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. The consistent travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience with both switches. Whether using the Holy Panda tactile switch or the Sky V3 linear switch, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Overall, the similarity in travel distance between these two switches highlights the attention to detail in their design, catering to the preferences of users who value a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
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 V3 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 V3 for $4.76.
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 Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is known for its sharp tactility that results in a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. This distinctive sound gives a tactile feedback that is highly sought after by enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is celebrated for its neutral sound signature, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing preferences. The Sky V3 provides a more subdued sound compared to the Holy Panda, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda switch is praised for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience. The pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and reactive feel create an immersive sensation that is distinctive to this switch. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch provides a milder typing experience with a more gentle touch compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The mild feel of the Sky V3 falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp and bright sound along with an invigorating tactile feedback, creating a unique typing experience favored by tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Sky V3 boasts a neutral sound signature and a mild typing feel that caters to a wider audience with diverse typing preferences. Whether you prefer the sharp tactility of the Holy Panda or the balanced feel of the Sky V3, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch with sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, then the Holy Panda would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound signature, medium-light weight, and a more gentle typing experience, then the Sky V3 would suit you better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and acoustics or a more subdued and comfortable typing experience.
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