Invyr Holy Panda vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Invyr Holy Panda and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer unique experiences for users seeking different qualities in their typing experience. The Holy Panda is revered for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is known for its resonant and clacky notes, coupled with a smooth keystroke thanks to its factory lube job, appealing to those who prefer a silky and high-pitched typing experience. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a more pronounced feedback or a smoother typing feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), we see a clear difference in the top housing material used. The Holy Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This material is ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) boasts a POM top housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. The POM material provides a unique typing experience with a distinct sound that sets it apart from the Holy Panda.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience for users of both switches. Despite differences in the top housing material, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile that offers a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of the key. Therefore, while the top and bottom housing materials may vary between the Holy Panda and Strawberry Wine (V2), the collective impact of both materials ensures that users will experience a well-rounded and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that they have different weight specifications. The Holy Panda has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams with an unknown actuation force, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and an actuation force of 45 grams. The Holy Panda offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier weight, making it suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the Holy Panda is the heavier option, providing a more significant keystroke experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is the lighter alternative. Both switches offer different benefits based on individual preferences, but they can both deliver satisfying results depending on the user's needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Holy Panda has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Strawberry Wine's 3.4 mm. The Holy Panda's 4.0mm distance provides a more traditional depth, whereas the Strawberry Wine's 3.4 mm offers a slightly shallower feel. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Strawberry Wine a suitable option for those seeking faster feedback. On the other hand, the Holy Panda's longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired level of responsiveness and keypress depth.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 best known for its sharp tactility that produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a clacky and resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp. While both switches provide distinct sound profiles, the Holy Panda leans towards a brighter and more pronounced clack, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a unique, higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Holy Panda is renowned for its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feel. It provides a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress, offering a responsive and immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. While the Holy Panda focuses on pronounced feedback and intensity, the Strawberry Wine (V2) prioritizes smoothness and a luxurious feel.
Overall, both the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer unique and appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holy Panda excels in providing a bright and sharp tactile feedback with a pronounced "clack" sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) emphasizes a silky smooth typing experience with a clacky and resonant sound profile. Depending on whether you prefer a more tactile and intense typing experience or a smoother and quieter one, both switches offer excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a premium typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will be a matter of personal preference based on individual typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced feedback and satisfying "clack" sound, the Invyr Holy Panda would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter linear switch with a factory-lubed smooth feel and a clacky sound, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Consider how you typically use your keyboard and what type of typing experience you enjoy the most. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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