Kailh Box Royal vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal and the Invyr Holy Panda mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both options cater to those who appreciate a tactile typing experience. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharp and binary tactility, offering an almost aggressive feedback that is perfect for individuals who enjoy a pronounced keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Holy Panda is known for its unique blend of sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" sound with each press. The Holy Panda's pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance make it a top choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Invyr Holy Panda both contribute to the sound profile of the switches in different ways. The Box Royal's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Holy Panda's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound quality is due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. However, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Overall, the combination of housing materials in each switch results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can impact the tactile feedback and sound when typing. In the case of the Box Royal and the Holy Panda, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The softer nature of nylon in both switches contributes to a rounder and duller sound profile upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, affects the sound when a key is released. The stiffer polycarbonate in the Holy Panda results in a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Box Royal's nylon top housing.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Invyr Holy Panda may differ, they both aim to provide a unique typing experience for users. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the use of polycarbonate in the Holy Panda's top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound that may appeal to users looking for a more distinct sound profile. Overall, the combination of housing materials in these switches showcases how subtle variations can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound quality.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Royal is the lighter of the two, with an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Holy Panda's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Box Royal requiring 70 grams and the Holy Panda requiring 67 grams. The Box Royal offers a balanced typing experience with a lighter actuation force, making it ideal for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Holy Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Holy Panda the longer-traveling switch, with an extra 0.4 mm of distance compared to the Box Royal. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance might find the Box Royal to be more responsive, especially for gaming purposes where faster response times are crucial. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press and deeper feel may lean towards the Holy Panda for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the slight variance in travel distance can cater to different preferences in typing 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 Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch is characterized by a high-pitched profile, creating a sharp and crisp noise with each keystroke. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Invyr Holy Panda switch is not provided, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is described as offering a sharp and intense tactile feedback, with a prominent and distinct tactile bump in each key press. In contrast, the Invyr Holy Panda is described as having an accented tactility, providing a medium level of feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Holy Panda switch is noted for its invigorating and snappy feel, creating a reactive and engaging typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal switch is ideal for those seeking an extremely tactile and sharp typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda switch offers a more balanced tactile feedback with an accentuated feel and snappy response. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Box Royal offering a more aggressive tactility while the Holy Panda delivers a medium yet invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for tactility and sound profile in their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider the level of tactility you prefer. If you enjoy a sharp and aggressive tactile bump with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a blend of pronounced feedback and an immersive typing sensation with a bright "clack" sound, the Invyr Holy Panda could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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