Huano Elf vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown present two distinct yet intriguing options for typists and gamers alike. The Elf switch, recognized for its POK top housing, not only enhances acoustics but also delivers a deep sound signature accompanied by a medium-light feel, making it a compelling choice for those who favor a smooth, linear typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a tactile experience characterized by a gentle bump, providing tactile feedback that enriches the typing flow without being overwhelming. Beyond their differences in tactile feedback, the G Pro Brown also features a frosted light diffuser that maximizes RGB brightness, adding a visually stunning element to your setup. While the Huano Elf is ideal for users seeking a quiet and fluid stroke, the G Pro Brown caters to those who appreciate subtle tactile sensations paired with satisfying auditory responses. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
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
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, distinct characteristics emerge from their top housings. The Elf utilizes a POK material, renowned for its low coefficient of friction and excellent durability, leading to a smoother and more robust typing experience. Its strength, which is significantly greater than that of POM or Nylon, suggests that the Elf can withstand extensive use while maintaining its performance. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is crafted from polycarbonate, which contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Although both materials aim to enhance the user experience, they do so in different ways; POK prioritizes smoothness and durability, whereas polycarbonate emphasizes sound clarity, especially when coupled with RGB lighting.
The bottom housing of both switches offers a point of similarity, as both the Huano Elf and the G Pro 3.0 Brown employ nylon. This classic material is known for its sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience during typing. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that users can expect a similar sound profile when bottoming out the keys—this gives both switches a certain level of acoustic richness. However, the distinct engineering of the top housings leads to differences in the overall sound output, which may alter the preference for users who prioritize either durability or sound quality in their typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials contributes to a unique typing experience in each switch. The Huano Elf's POK top housing and nylon bottom housing might yield a super-smooth operation with a slightly muted sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top complements its nylon base to produce a sharper auditory feedback. In practice, this means that while both switches share some foundational characteristics due to their nylon bottom housing, the top housing choices lead to distinctly different experiences. Users can expect the tactile feel and acoustic signature to vary based on these material choices, highlighting how the interaction between different housing materials influences performance outcomes in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Elf is the lighter option, requiring only 42 grams of force to actuate, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Brown necessitates 55 grams, making it a sturdier choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, the Huano Elf does not have a specified bottom out force, meaning we lack direct information for comparison on that front. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which again highlights a heavier feel. Users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Huano Elf for its lower actuation force, while those who appreciate a firmer press may find the G Pro 3.0 Brown more appealing due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the difference in actuation forces suggests differing experiences in typing dynamics between the two switches.
Travel distance
The Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch differ in their travel distances, with the Elf measuring 3.6 mm and the G Pro 3.0 Brown at 4 mm. The Elf's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key presses for faster response times, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown’s longer travel distance offers a more substantial feel, catering to those who appreciate a deeper and more pronounced keypress. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Huano Elf would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more traditional and tactile experience might lean towards the Gateron option. In summary, the Elf offers a quicker response, making it suited for fast-paced gaming, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more robust typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 Huano Elf linear switch is known for its deep sound signature, which contributes to a more pronounced auditory experience during typing. This is enhanced by its POK top housing that is specifically designed for better acoustics, allowing for a rich and immersive audio profile. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch features a medium-high pitch that delivers satisfying feedback, although it is subtler compared to the Elf. This auditory character, coupled with the frosted light diffuser, emphasizes RGB lighting effects, making the overall typing experience visually and aurally appealing. The ultimate sound experience can vary based on the keyboard frame and keycap material, but both switches offer unique yet distinct auditory profiles.
When considering feel, the Huano Elf switch provides a medium-light feel that balances ease of use with satisfying resistance, perfect for lengthy typing sessions. Its linear nature means that there are no tactile bumps or interruptions, promoting a smooth keypress from top to bottom. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch boasts an easy-to-press design that requires minimal force to activate, making it comfortable for long periods of typing. Its mild tactile feedback strikes a balance that prevents overwhelming the user while still delivering a sense of engagement with each keystroke. The stepped tactile feel adds an interesting nuance, where users can sense multiple stages within the keypress without it being distracting or too pronounced, allowing for a pleasant typing rhythm that complements various styles of use.
In conclusion, while the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch cater to different preferences, both offer distinctive qualities that enhance the typing experience. The Elf stands out with its deeper sound and medium-light feel, providing an immersive audio atmosphere and smooth keystrokes. Meanwhile, the G Pro Brown delivers a balance of satisfying auditory feedback and a gentle tactile sensation, making it an approachable and enjoyable option for various typists. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound richness or a tactile feel, as both switches can deliver satisfying results in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch primarily hinges on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended use. If you seek a switch that provides a smooth, linear experience with a medium-light feel and a deeper sound signature, the Elf might be your best bet. This switch would be particularly suited for gaming or fast-paced typing where a seamless keypress without tactile interruptions can enhance performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a subtle tactile feedback for a more pronounced typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be an ideal choice. Its medium actuation force allows for comfortable typing with less finger fatigue during prolonged use, making it great for general typing tasks or office environments. Additionally, the G Pro Brown’s frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, which can be an appealing feature if aesthetics are important to you. Ultimately, whether you prioritize smoothness and sound or tactile feedback and visual effects will guide your decision in choosing the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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