Invyr Holy Panda vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Holy Panda is well-known for its sharp tactility, providing a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. Its pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance make it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a more refined sound profile, with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. It also provides a sharp, satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. While the Holy Panda is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the U4Tx is described as 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gazzew U4Tx are quite different in terms of composition and the resulting sound profiles they create. The Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound due to its softer composition. This contrast in material results in a difference in the sound produced by the two switches, with the Holy Panda offering a crisper sound compared to the U4Tx's deeper tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Holy Panda features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption qualities. In contrast, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, like its top housing counterpart, delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its soft composition. Despite both switches using softer materials for their bottom housings, the specific compositions of nylon and the Gazzew blend may still result in subtle differences in sound and feel when typing on the switches.
Overall, the combination of housing materials used in the Holy Panda and the Gazzew U4Tx plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches offer a rich and deep sound profile, the Holy Panda's use of polycarbonate in the top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound compared to the U4Tx's softer Gazzew blend. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Holy Panda may offer a slightly different feel and sound compared to the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that both switches have an actuation force of None grams. However, the Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the U4Tx, which has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the Holy Panda provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the U4Tx offers a medium typing experience. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly lighter feel when typing on the U4Tx compared to the Holy Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users preferring a lighter typing experience for extended use, while others may prefer a heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4Tx has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Holy Panda. The difference may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a shallower feel, the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Holy Panda with its longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying depth to the key press for those who enjoy a bit more resistance. 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 Gazzew U4Tx 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
In terms of sound, the Invyr Holy Panda offers a bright "clack" with each keystroke, while the Gazzew U4Tx provides a deeper, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet sound when topping out. The Holy Panda is more on the sharp and pronounced side, while the U4Tx is described as having a bassy and muted sound profile. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the Holy Panda offering a more traditional clicky sound and the U4Tx providing a more refined and subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda is known for its sharp tactile bump and pronounced feedback, offering an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. It falls under the category of "accented" and "snappy" switches, providing a tactile experience that is both responsive and satisfying. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is also described as having a sharp tactile bump, allowing for a distinct and crisp feedback with each keypress. Both switches offer a tactile feel that is highly enjoyable and suitable for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gazzew U4Tx have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Holy Panda excels in providing a sharp and pronounced sound with a tactile feel that is invigorating and responsive. Meanwhile, the U4Tx offers a deeper and bassier sound profile with a more refined and subdued typing experience, characterized by its sharp tactile bump. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch or the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences in terms of feel and sound. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp, invigorating tactile feedback accompanied by a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, the Holy Panda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock", and a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx could be the better option. Consider how you prioritize these factors in your typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.