Invyr Holy Panda vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Holy Panda is renowned 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 Zero Degree 0° from Gateron revolutionizes silent typing with its smoothness, stability, and sound-absorbing qualities, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, diving deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch will ultimately help you determine the best fit for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are quite similar, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switches. This commonality in housing material suggests that both switches will likely deliver a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Invyr Holy Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. This distinction in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, providing users with a unique typing experience based on their preference for sound profile.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Invyr Holy Panda and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° showcases how each material contributes to the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the difference in bottom housing material, with the Holy Panda featuring nylon and the Zero Degree 0° utilizing polycarbonate, offers users a variation in the depth and fullness of sound. Whether one prefers a crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper sound with nylon, both switches provide an opportunity for users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there is a clear difference in the actuation and bottom out force. The Holy Panda has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch in terms of how much pressure is needed to fully press the key. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more gentle touch when typing. Since the actuation force of the Holy Panda is unknown and the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° is also unknown, it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of which is lighter or heavier overall. However, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Zero Degree 0° for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Holy Panda for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Holy Panda has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Zero Degree 0°. The difference may seem small, but when it comes to typing or gaming, it can make a noticeable impact on the user experience. The shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Holy Panda may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 is known for its satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, creating a distinctive and pronounced sound that is favored by tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to absorb sound and reduce noise, providing a silent typing experience with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. The sound of both switches will be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Holy Panda offers a blend of sharp tactility and pronounced feedback, providing an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. With its distinct tactile bump that is both firm and responsive, the Holy Panda delivers a snappy and accented typing experience that is not overwhelming but still prominent. On the contrary, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not specified, but it is designed to offer unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel for a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch excels in providing a sharp tactility with a satisfyingly bright sound, offering a unique and immersive typing experience for tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on delivering a silent typing experience with its innovative design that reduces noise and absorbs sound. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, but they both promise results that are sure to satisfy keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with sharp tactility and a satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, then the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, stable, and silent typing experience with a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for feedback intensity, sound, and typing experience.
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