Huano Elf vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and Gateron Jupiter Red are two intriguing linear options that cater to distinct preferences and typing styles. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also produces a rich, deep sound signature paired with a medium-light actuation force—perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying, yet less strenuous typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red boasts a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke thanks to its single-stage spring and medium-heavy actuation, making it an ideal choice for users who favor a more substantial feedback while typing. Additionally, the high-precision molds and softer backlight effects of the Jupiter Red enhance its appeal as an elegant option for gamers and typists alike. Both switches have their unique charms, catering to different tactile preferences, but deciding which one is right for you can depend on your individual needs. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches, a noticeable contrast exists in the top housing. The Elf utilizes POK material for its top housing, a polyketone known for its smoothness, durability, and low coefficient of friction at 0.04. This yields a clacky sound profile that is both pleasing and tactile. In contrast, the Jupiter Red employs polycarbonate as its top housing material, which enhances the sound profile by providing a brighter, sharper sound due to its stiffer structure. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it visually appealing, particularly for setups that incorporate RGB lighting, allowing for captivating effects as light passes through. While both materials serve distinct purposes in generating unique auditory and tactile experiences, their differing physical properties mean that the resultant sound profiles during testing will be notably different.
In the bottom housing of both switches, however, they align in the use of nylon. As a classic material for switch housings, nylon embodies a softness that contributes significantly to the sound profile. Both the Elf and the Jupiter Red benefit from nylon’s sound absorption characteristics, producing a deeper, fuller sound when the switch is pressed. The consistency in the bottom housing material means that while the top housings establish diverse auditory experiences, the bottom housing aspects are unified. This shared nylon composition facilitates a smoother bottom-out feel and sound, ensuring that both switches maintain a level of acoustic depth regardless of their top materials.
Ultimately, when pressing either the Huano Elf or Gateron Jupiter Red switches, users will experience a blend of characteristics derived from both housing materials. The POK and polycarbonate top housings distinctly influence the sound profile, creating a contrasting auditory experience, while the shared nylon bottom housing harmonizes their tactile feedback and acoustic fullness. This interplay results in a cohesive and enjoyable typing experience, even though the two switch types present varying sound dynamics based on their top housing selections. The unique combination of materials not only defines each switch’s acoustic identity but also showcases how a thoughtful selection of materials can yield diverse yet complementary results in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces while the bottom out force for the Elf remains unspecified. The Huano Elf features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it a suitable option for those who prefer extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to activate each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel for users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. The bottom out force for the Jupiter Red is known to be 60 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully depress the key, which could cater to those who prefer a more tactile feedback when typing. Since the Elf’s bottom out force is unknown, we can't make a direct comparison there. Overall, the Elf is the lighter switch, while the Jupiter Red is on the heavier side, appealing to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, we find that the Elf measures 3.6 mm while the Jupiter Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Huano Elf switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who prioritize quick key presses. In contrast, the Jupiter Red, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel, which some users might favor for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference: if you prefer quicker response times, the Huano Elf would be the better option; if you seek a deeper feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red would suit you better.
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 Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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
The Huano Elf linear switch is known for its deep sound signature that enhances acoustics, providing a rich auditory experience when typing. This switch's POK top housing contributes to its characteristic audio depth, making it quite appealing for users who appreciate a more resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound, resulting in a moderate sound profile that is versatile for various settings, whether at home or in an office. While the Elf delivers a more pronounced sound, the Jupiter Red provides a balanced acoustic that can accommodate both novice and experienced typists without being overly distracting.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch has a medium-light actuation force that promises a satisfying typing experience, making it approachable for users who may prefer less resistance. Meanwhile, the Jupiter Red stands out with its polished, creamy, silky, and mild feel, which ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Jupiter Red's single-stage spring design contributes to its medium-heavy actuation and refined sensation, allowing fingers to glide over the keys seamlessly. While both switches have their charm, the Elf leans more toward a lighter touch, while the Jupiter Red emphasizes a luxurious, smooth keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Huano Elf and Gateron Jupiter Red switches offer distinctive auditory and tactile experiences, catering to different user preferences. The Elf's deep sound and medium-light feel attract those who enjoy pronounced acoustics, while the Jupiter Red's neutral sound and polished, creamy, and silky characteristics make it suitable for those desiring a smooth, refined typing experience. Ultimately, either of these switches can yield enjoyable results based on what you seek in auditory or tactile feedback during your typing sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches, your choice should hinge on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and intended usage. If you're looking for a switch that provides a unique acoustic experience with a medium-light feel, the Elf switch might be your best bet. Its POK top housing is designed to enhance sound quality, making it ideal if you prioritize auditory feedback while typing, especially in more laid-back settings. Conversely, if you seek a more conventional yet polished typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Jupiter Red is a solid option. With its smooth keystroke and medium-heavy actuation, it caters well to both beginners and advanced users, providing versatility across various environments—whether you're working or gaming. Ultimately, your selection should consider how much weight you prefer in a switch and the type of sound and feel that will keep you comfortable during extended typing sessions.
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