Gateron Aliaz vs. Huano Elf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Huano Elf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and the Huano Elf present two distinct options that cater to different preferences and settings. The Aliaz, recognized for its silent design, is an excellent choice for those in quieter environments, such as offices or shared spaces. Its medium-heavy weight provides a substantial feel with each keystroke, delivering a tactile experience that many typists appreciate without the accompanying noise. In contrast, the Huano Elf offers a linear switch experience with its unique POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and produces a deep sound signature. This switch features a medium-light feel, providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more fluid keystroke without tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preferences for sound and feel; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and Huano Elf switches, it is evident that the choice of housing materials directly influences both the acoustic properties and tactile experience of each switch. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate’s rigidity, lending a clear resonance that, when accompanied by RGB lighting, enhances its aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Huano Elf utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing, which offers a smooth and elevated sound due to its low friction coefficient and exceptional strength. While both materials aim to enhance the auditory experience, polycarbonate achieves a more resonant and bright character, while POK produces a smooth and clacky sound, catering to different preferences among users.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aliaz again opts for polycarbonate, which, as mentioned, contributes to a resonant and high-pitched sound profile. The clear nature of the polycarbonate also allows for consistent aesthetic value, especially in illuminated setups. Conversely, the Huano Elf uses a nylon bottom housing, which is known for its softer nature. This softness means that nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which contrasts with the sharper characteristics of polycarbonate. This distinction emphasizes how the material of each switch's bottom housing plays a crucial role in defining the overall sound experience—where the Aliaz offers a bright resonance, the Elf leans into the warmth of sound absorption.
Ultimately, the differing materials in the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Aliaz and Huano Elf highlight their unique sound dynamics. While the Aliaz provides a clear, crisp auditory profile through both housings, the Elf's configuration allows for a deeper sound experience with a noticeable clack due to its nylon bottom. If both switches were constructed with similar materials, users could expect a more consistent sound profile across key presses and releases. However, as it stands, the split between a rigid and smooth top housing alongside a bright and down-sounding bottom housing creates distinct yet complementary experiences, catering to diverse preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that cater to different user preferences. The Aliaz has a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a stronger push to register a keystroke, which can provide a more substantial typing experience suitable for those who enjoy a firmer feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Huano Elf boasts a lighter actuation force of just 42 grams, making it easier to press and potentially more comfortable for extended use, ideal for long working hours or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. While the bottom out force of the Elf is unknown, the Aliaz's bottom out force is 75 grams, indicating a more pronounced resistance when pressing the key all the way down. Overall, the Aliaz is the heavier option, which may appeal to users seeking a solid feel, whereas the Huano Elf presents a lighter choice for those who prioritize ease of use and reduced strain.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch, we find that the Aliaz has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Elf measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Aliaz the longer option, providing a more pronounced depth when pressed down. Gamers often prefer the shorter travel distance of the Elf, as its 3.6 mm design allows for quicker response times, which can be advantageous during gameplay. Conversely, those who favor a more substantial and hearty feel in their keystrokes may gravitate towards the Aliaz due to its greater travel distance. Therefore, the choice largely hinges on personal preference: if you value responsiveness, the Huano Elf is the better option; if you appreciate depth, then the Gateron Aliaz is ideal.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 considering the sound profile of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch, it stands out for its muted acoustics, making it an ideal choice for quiet environments such as offices where minimizing noise is a priority. The Aliaz switches produce a softer sound, effectively reducing the mechanical clacking commonly associated with standard switches. On the other hand, the Huano Elf linear switches provide a different aural experience. With their unique POK top housing, they deliver a deep sound signature that contributes to an engaging auditory feedback during typing. While the Aliaz is designed to be quiet, the Elf's sound adds a resonant depth that might appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience in their keyboard usage.
In terms of tactile feedback, the Aliaz switches excel with their silky and polished feel. This results in a smooth typing experience, as the medium-heavy weight gives a substantial and reassuring feedback on each keystroke. The lube and materials used enhance the overall smoothness and minimize resistance, allowing users to glide effortlessly from key to key. On the other hand, the Huano Elf switches are characterized by a medium-light feel, which can provide a satisfying typing experience but may not offer the same level of pronounced feedback as the Aliaz. While each switch has its distinct feel, those who prefer a heavier, more reliable tactile response might lean towards the Aliaz, while the Elf serves well for those who enjoy a lighter touch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and Huano Elf linear switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Aliaz is well-suited for quiet settings with its muted sound and substantial tactile feedback, making it a compelling choice for users prioritizing discretion and typing strength. In contrast, the Huano Elf provides a deeper sound signature paired with a medium-light feel, which can be more enjoyable for those desiring a lively typing atmosphere. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences, whether you prefer a quieter, more tactile experience or a more resonant, smoother touch.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you find yourself in a quiet workspace or you work around others who may be distracted by noise, the Aliaz is an excellent choice due to its muted sound profile and substantial tactile feedback, catering perfectly to individuals who appreciate a heavier feel and want to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer the lightweight and swift movement associated with linear switches, the Elf would be a better fit, particularly if you enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience. Its unique POK top housing enhances sound quality, giving a deeper sound signature that can make typing feel more satisfying. Therefore, consider your priorities: if you value a quiet, refined typing experience with tactile feedback, go for the Aliaz; however, if you seek a smooth, low-resistance feel with a richer sound, the Elf will suit you well. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, so your choice should align with your personal typing style and the environments in which you typically type.
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