Invyr Holy Panda vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, one can see the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Holy Panda is renowned for its sharp tactility, producing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with every keystroke, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion offers a pronounced tactile bump with a medium weight feel and a neutral sound signature, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovative design. Each switch has its unique qualities that make them appealing to different types of users. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from polycarbonate's translucency, making it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, because both switches share the same top housing material, their sound profiles may be quite similar when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Holy Panda features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound. Similarly, the Thunder Shadow also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for the same reasons, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. While the top housings of both switches are polycarbonate, the differences in their bottom housings may result in slightly varied sound profiles when typing on the switches.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of these switches can impact the overall sound profile when typing. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite both switches sharing polycarbonate top housings, the distinction in their bottom housing materials can lead to subtle differences in sound and feel when typing on the Holy Panda versus the Thunder Shadow.
Weight
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Holy Panda being slightly heavier at 67 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's 63.5 grams. The actuation force for both switches is not specified, so it can be assumed that they are similar in this aspect. When it comes to weight preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force and bottom out force of the Thunder Shadow for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force of the Holy Panda for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy feel when it comes to bottoming out, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, the Holy Panda has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm. The Holy Panda's 4.0mm travel distance provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm, which may feel more abrupt to some users. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Thunder Shadow, while those who enjoy a more satisfying key press with greater depth may lean towards the Holy Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, providing a unique acoustic resonance. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Holy Panda leaning towards a more pronounced and satisfying click, while the Thunder Shadow opts for a more subtle and versatile sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Holy Panda and the Thunder Shadow switches are described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. The Holy Panda is further characterized as sharp and snappy, providing a distinctive and lively typing experience. The Thunder Shadow, on the other hand, maintains a harmonious balance overall with a medium weight feel and a tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches aim to provide a tactile typing sensation that enhances the overall typing experience, albeit in slightly different ways.
Overall, the Holy Panda and the Thunder Shadow switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp tactility and a bright clack sound profile, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch focuses on achieving a balanced and neutral sound signature, coupled with a medium weight feel for a versatile typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, either switch can offer a satisfying and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches prioritize tactile feedback and provide a unique typing sensation that sets them apart in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering between the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, you should choose the Holy Panda if you are looking for a switch with a sharp tactile bump and pronounced feedback. The Holy Panda is known for its bright "clack" sound and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Thunder Shadow if you prefer a more balanced tactile switch with a neutral sound profile. The Thunder Shadow offers a harmonious tactile bump and a medium weight feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for either a more intense and sharp tactile feedback (Holy Panda) or a balanced and neutral typing experience (Thunder Shadow).
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