Invyr Holy Panda vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, to the HMX Swift, a linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages for different types of users. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke that appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter actuation force. The Holy Panda is accentuated and snappy, while the Swift is clacky, easy-to-press, and bouncy. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the HMX Swift exhibit distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Swift's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in stiffness between the polycarbonate and nylon plastics contributes to the variations in sound produced by each switch. The polycarbonate material in the Holy Panda's top housing results in a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon material in the Swift's top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon materials, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both the Holy Panda and the Swift contributes to the overall sound produced by the switches. This consistency in housing material for the bottom of the switches ensures that the sound profile remains consistent between the two switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
While the top and bottom housings may have different materials in the Holy Panda and the Swift, the overall impact on the sound profile of the switches remains consistent. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housings affects the overall sound produced by each switch. The differences in stiffness and absorption of sound between the housing materials contribute to the unique sound profiles of the Holy Panda and the Swift. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a high-quality sound experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that they offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces. The Holy Panda has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Swift has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Holy Panda offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Swift provides a lighter touch for potentially longer periods of typing or gaming. Overall, the variation in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches gives users the opportunity to choose based on their preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall into the category of traditional travel distances, with the Holy Panda being slightly longer than the Swift. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Swift with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Holy Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 is best known for its sharp tactility that produces a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. This iconic switch provides pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance that is highly sought after by tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is known for its deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, resulting in a smooth and delicate sound that pairs well with its 42g actuation force. While the Holy Panda offers a more distinct and percussive sound, the Swift provides a silky smoothness that creates a unique auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda is characterized as invigorating, with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a sharp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. This switch offers a balanced blend of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, creating an immersive typing sensation for users. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, providing a light and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. The Swift offers a responsive and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda and HMX Swift switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp and clacky sound with pronounced feedback, the HMX Swift stands out for its smooth and deep sound profile paired with a light actuation force. Both switches offer a distinctive typing experience that can enhance the overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, the Invyr Holy Panda would be the way to go. With its sharp tactility and pronounced feedback, it is favored among tactile switch enthusiasts for its immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother, deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift linear switch would be a great choice. Its easy-to-press feel and feathery touch make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the Holy Panda and Swift switches comes down to your preference for tactile feedback and bottom out force, so choose accordingly based on what feels best for your typing experience.
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