Huano Elf vs. Kailh BCP

Overview

When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy options are the Huano Elf and the Kailh BCP, both designed as linear switches but offering distinct experiences. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a deep sound signature combined with a medium-light feel, resulting in a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, Kailh's BCP presents a reimagined take on the beloved Black Cherry Pies, featuring a creamy, viscous, and bouncy sensation that ensures a unique tactile feel. Users of the BCP can expect a typing experience punctuated by a signature poppy and clacky sound, setting it apart from the quieter Elf. While the Elf caters to those seeking a smooth and acoustically rich typing experience, the BCP appeals to users who appreciate a more dynamic sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Elf Linear

Kailh BCP Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Kailh BCP, there are significant differences in the configurations of the top housings, which can affect the overall typing experience. The Huano Elf utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing, a material known for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, the Elf's POK housing allows for a smoother keystroke and controls wear 14 times better than POM. This superior shock resistance—2.3 times greater than Nylon—further enhances the Elf's overall performance, contributing to its clacky and satisfying sound. In contrast, the Kailh BCP employs a nylon top housing, a classic but softer plastic that yields a deeper sound profile. Nylon's ability to absorb sound adds warmth to the key sound when typing, but in terms of smoothness and durability, it does not match the advanced properties of POK.

On the flip side, both the Huano Elf and Kailh BCP utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a notable similarity in that aspect. As a classic switch housing material, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, regardless of the specific model. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a consistent reduction in sharpness and an enhanced sense of roundness in sound, making for a more muted auditory experience when the keys bottom out. Therefore, while the BCP and the Elf share this commonality in bottom housing, their sound profiles still diverge due to the differences in the materials used for the top housing.

With the bottom housings of both switches being identical in material, the overall typing experience ultimately hinges on the performance of the top housings. In the Huano Elf, the POK top housing contributes to its smooth and robust keystrokes, while the Kailh BCP's nylon top produces a softer, warmer sound. This juxtaposition demonstrates how even with a shared bottom housing material, the switch experience can be widely variable, reflecting the qualities each top housing brings to the table. Therefore, while the two switches may offer some similar auditory characteristics due to their nylon bottom construction, the distinct materials of the top housings lead to different tactile and aural experiences during use.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, we see a notable difference in their characteristics. The Elf switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it the lighter option, which could be advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams. Additionally, the BCP has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating that it provides a firmer resistance when the key is fully pressed down, contributing to a more substantial typing experience. While the Elf switch lacks specific bottom out force data, its lighter actuation force implies a different tactile experience compared to the heavier and more forceful BCP switch. Thus, users seeking a softer feel will likely gravitate toward the Huano Elf, whereas those preferring a more pronounced resistance should opt for the Kailh BCP.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, the Elf offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the BCP has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Huano Elf provides a more pronounced keypress, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP, with its shorter travel distance, could be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times due to the reduced distance they need to press down. Overall, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Kailh BCP would be the better option, while the Huano Elf would be ideal for those who appreciate a more substantial keypress experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Elf linear switch is characterized by a deep sound signature, which adds a pleasing auditory dimension to the typing experience. The POK top housing contributes to enhanced acoustics, allowing the Elf to produce a more resonant sound that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switch exudes a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, reminiscent of a traditional mechanical switch but elevated through Kailh's custom design. This engaging sound provides an enjoyable auditory feedback that can make typing feel more dynamic. Both switches present unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences; however, the sound experience will ultimately be influenced by factors like the keyboard build and keycap choices.

When examining the feel of these switches, the Elf offers a medium-light actuation force, providing a balanced typing experience that many users find comfortable for extended periods. The sensation is generally smooth, allowing for a fluid typing action. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switch is noted for its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy feel, which gives it a distinct texture when typing. The overall experience can feel more lively and dynamic, inviting a more energetic typing style. While both switches provide satisfying tactile feedback, the Elf leans towards a more straightforward linear feel, whereas the BCP adds complexity with its unique bounciness.

In summary, both the Huano Elf and Kailh BCP linear switches provide appealing qualities that cater to different types of users. The Elf’s deep sound and medium-light feel lend to a straightforward yet enjoyable experience, while the BCP captivates with its poppy sound and bouncy tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch could serve as an excellent choice for enhancing your mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the best option will depend on whether you prioritize acoustic depth or a more textured typing sensation, but each can deliver satisfying results tailored to your specific needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Huano Elf linear switch or the Kailh BCP linear switch, your decision ultimately hinges on personal preference regarding sound profile and tactile feedback. If you value a more medium-light feel with a pleasant, deep sound signature for a smooth and satisfying typing experience, then the Huano Elf is likely your best choice. It excels in providing an acoustically enhanced environment, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter setting or a more understated sound. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a firmer typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Kailh BCP switch would be the perfect fit for you. Its unique creamy and bouncy feel, coupled with a signature poppy and clacky sound, makes it appealing for those who appreciate a more dynamic typing experience. In the end, your choice should reflect whether you prefer a lighter, acoustically refined switch or a more robust, lively option.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more