Huano Elf vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and HMX Hibiscus serve as two compelling linear options, each with unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and creates a distinct deep sound signature, paired with a medium-light actuation force that promotes a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus stands out for its ultra-light actuation force, making it among the most responsive switches available, while its clacky, poppy sound signature contributes to an engaging auditory feedback. While both switches offer smooth keystrokes and appeal to linear switch enthusiasts, the Elf provides a more grounded sound and feel, whereas the Hibiscus leans towards an ultra-reactive touch with delightful auditory cues. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Huano Elf and HMX Hibiscus switches present an interesting contrast, particularly when examining their top housings. The Huano Elf employs a material known as POK (polyketone), which is lauded for its low coefficient of friction at 0.04, making it one of the smoothest options available on the market. This property enhances the switch's actuation and contributes to a distinct feel during typing. Furthermore, the POK material is remarkable for its durability, exhibiting wear resistance that is 14 times stronger than POM and showing superior shock resistance over both Nylon and POM. This suggests that the Elf's performance lies in its smoothness and durability, making it suitable for users who value a crisp and satisfying keystroke.
In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switches utilize nylon for their top housing, a material revered as a classic in switch design. Nylon’s composition is relatively softer, leading to a different sound profile compared to the POK material of the Elf. As a result, typing on the Hibiscus creates a fuller, deeper sound due to the material's inherent ability to absorb sound waves better than harder plastics, creating a rounder auditory experience. While the smoothness factor of the HMX Hibiscus may not match that of the POK material found in the Elf, the compensation comes from a warmer acoustic signature that many users appreciate for comfort and typographical feel.
When analyzing the bottom housings of both switches, it's notable that both the Huano Elf and HMX Hibiscus employ nylon, which leads to similar sound characteristics. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to the deep and full sound profile associated with both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that while the top housings differ significantly in material and resultant feel, the final typing experience for both switches is shaped significantly by the bottom housing. This means that despite the contrast in their top housing materials, the switches' unique characteristics will blend through the interaction of both the top and bottom housings, ensuring a distinctive sound and feel that reflects the qualities of each respective material.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, we see that both switches share the same actuation force of 42 grams, meaning they require an equal amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke, thus providing a similar typing experience regarding the activation point. However, the Hibiscus has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the bottom out force for the Elf is unknown. This suggests that the Hibiscus offers a more defined resistance when bottoming out compared to the Elf, though without its specified force, we can't directly compare how they feel at that depth. Overall, since the Elf has a unspecified bottom out force, it may provide a less substantial typing experience than the Hibiscus, which is heavier due to its higher bottom out force. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference: the Elf may be more suitable for extended typing sessions with its potentially softer bottoming out, while the Hibiscus caters to those who prefer a heavier, more tactile feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, we find that the Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Hibiscus offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Elf the longer option by a margin of 0.1 mm. For gamers or users seeking quicker response times, the Hibiscus may be more appealing due to its shorter actuation distance, which can facilitate faster key presses. However, for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel and a deeper travel, the Elf would be the favorable choice thanks to its greater depth. Ultimately, both switches provide benefits depending on user preference for responsiveness versus tactile feedback.
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 HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 switch is known for its deep sound signature, which contributes to a rich auditory experience while typing. The POK top housing enhances acoustics, resulting in a more pronounced and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the Elf leans towards a deeper tone, whereas the Hibiscus delivers a more vibrant and sharp sound. It's also important to remember that the overall sound signature can vary based on the keyboard plate, chassis, and keycaps used.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Huano Elf features a medium-light actuation force, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing strain. This balance enhances the overall typing experience, allowing for quick and responsive input. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus boasts an ultra-light actuation force that exceeds 80% of all mechanical switches, catering to those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. The Hibiscus aims for unparalleled smoothness, providing an exceptionally satisfying typing experience that can feel light and fluid. Thus, while the Elf offers a medium-light feel that is pleasing, the Hibiscus takes it a step further with its ultra-light touch.
In conclusion, both the Huano Elf and HMX Hibiscus linear switches bring unique qualities to the table. The Elf is characterized by its deep sound and medium-light feel, making it great for those who appreciate a richer auditory experience combined with comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Hibiscus stands out with its clacky and crisp sound alongside an ultra-light actuation that offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Regardless of which switch you choose, you'll find that each brings its own flavor to mechanical keyboards, appealing to different preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and specific use cases. If you value a deeper sound signature and a medium-light feel, the Huano Elf is tailored for you, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate enhanced acoustics and a satisfying typing experience without the worry of bottom-out force. This switch is perfect for long typing sessions, where comfort and sound quality are your top priorities. On the other hand, if you're looking for an ultra-light actuation with a clacky and poppy sound profile, the HMX Hibiscus is your best bet. This switch shines when you want a smooth and crisp feedback with a light bottom-out force, allowing for quicker, more responsive typing, making it suitable for gamers or anyone who prefers a more tactile sensation during their keystrokes. In summary, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize acoustic depth and comfort versus a light, snappy, and engaging typing experience.
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