Invyr Holy Panda vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gazzew U4 mechanical keyboard switches, there are some distinct differences to consider. The Holy Panda is revered for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, making it a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the U4 offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while providing an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The Holy Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', while the U4 is categorized as 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', 'Sharp'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gazzew U4, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound quality and performance. The Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing provides a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the materials differ in terms of sound characteristics, both aim to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the differences between the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing and the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing become apparent. The nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4's bottom housing, made from the same proprietary plastic blend as the top housing, complements the switch's overall sound profile with a rich and deep sound. Despite the different materials used, both switches prioritize a satisfying sound experience for users.
Overall, both the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gazzew U4 switches offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinctive sound profiles. While the Holy Panda utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings, ensuring a consistent and rich sound experience. Regardless of the specific materials used, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience, whether it be through sharper, crisper sounds or deeper, more resonant tones.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the Holy Panda has a significantly higher bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the U4's 62 grams, making it the heavier option. The actuation force of the U4 at 45 grams is also lighter than the Holy Panda's unknown actuation force. The lighter actuation force of the U4 may attract users looking for a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Holy Panda could appeal to those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we can see that the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Holy Panda's 4 mm. The U4 offers a more shallow keypress experience, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Holy Panda provides a bit more depth with its 4 mm travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Both switches offer a tactile experience, but the Holy Panda provides a slightly longer travel distance for those seeking a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
The Holy Panda switch is known for its bright "clack" sound with each keystroke, providing a distinct and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the U4 switch is characterized by a muted and low-pitched sound profile, offering a whisper-quiet typing experience. While the Holy Panda delivers a more pronounced and resonant sound, the U4 offers a more subtle and understated auditory feedback, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing environment.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Holy Panda and the U4 are described as sharp tactile switches, providing a high level of feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump. However, the Holy Panda is also noted for being accented, invigorating, and snappy, offering a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming, yet still immersive and responsive. On the other hand, the U4 focuses more on the sharp tactile feedback without additional descriptors, highlighting its consistent and distinct tactile bump with each keypress.
In conclusion, the Holy Panda and the U4 switches both offer a sharp tactile experience with a strong tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback for tactile switch enthusiasts. However, they differ in sound profile, with the Holy Panda producing a bright and resonant "clack" sound, while the U4 offers a muted and low-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound and the specific typing experience desired, but both switches are sure to deliver a high-quality tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which tactile switch to choose, you should opt for the Invyr Holy Panda if you are drawn to a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound. The Holy Panda is ideal for those who enjoy an invigorating and sharp typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a sharp tactile bump, and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 would be the better choice for you. The U4 offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it whisper quiet and perfect for those looking for a more subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Holy Panda and the U4 comes down to personal preference, whether you prioritize tactile feedback, sound, or bottom out force in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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