Huano Elf vs. Jerrzi Lotus V2
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, gamers and typists often find themselves weighing the options between popular choices like the Huano Elf and the Jerrzi Lotus V2, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Huano Elf is renowned for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a rich, deep sound signature, making each keystroke a pleasure with its medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness. On the other hand, while the Jerrzi Lotus V2 may not have standout features like its counterpart, it offers a reliable and smooth typing experience that appeals to those who prefer straightforward performance without the frills. Each switch caters to different preferences: the Elf is ideal for users who value auditory feedback and a unique sound profile, while the Lotus V2 suits those looking for a more traditional, consistent feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Jerrzi Lotus V2, we find a distinct contrast in the top housing components. The Elf utilizes POK, a polyketone material known for its exceptional durability and low friction coefficient of 0.04, providing a notably smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus V2 employs POM for its top housing, which, although less frictional at 0.03, is also praised for delivering a subtle and pleasing sound profile. These differences result in unique tactile and auditory experiences; the Elf’s POK contributes to a clackier sound, while the POM in the Lotus V2 creates a more muted, deeper sound. Each material's characteristics enrich the overall switch experience, making them suitable for different preferences among users.
The bottom housing of the Huano Elf is constructed from nylon, a classic in switch housing materials, praised for its sound absorption properties. This material tends to produce a deeper, rounder sound profile, marking a stark contrast to the Lotus V2’s POM bottom housing, which shares a similar deep and muted sound profile to its counterpart. Both materials create a satisfying auditory experience, yet the Elf's nylon may induce a slightly fuller sound due to its softer nature. This distinction highlights how the bottom housing significantly influences the feel and sound when bottoming out, further diversifying the experience between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of materials in the Elf and Lotus V2 results in varying characteristics despite their overlapping sound profiles. The differing top materials—POK for the Elf and POM for the Lotus—alongside nylon in the Elf and POM in the Lotus for the bottom housing, create a complex interplay between durability, smoothness, and sound. While both switches can achieve rich auditory experiences, the switch feel, bottom-out sound, and release sound will still differ, reflecting the unique properties each housing contributes. This careful balance can ultimately lead to similar resonances in sound but with distinct tactile experiences that cater to diverse user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch, we see that both have distinct actuation forces. The Elf requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, whereas the Lotus V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This difference suggests that the Elf may be better suited for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, potentially making it more comfortable for extended use during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Lotus V2 may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing, as its heavier actuation force can provide a firmer response. Unfortunately, both switches list their bottom out forces as unavailable, so we cannot compare that aspect at this time. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Huano Elf would be your choice, while the Jerrzi Lotus V2 caters more to those who prefer a stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch, the Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lotus V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This results in the Lotus V2 being the more responsive option, potentially appealing to gamers who favor quicker actuation for improved reaction times. In contrast, the Elf's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper, more robust feel when typing. Thus, selecting between these two switches largely depends on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth, with the Elf offering a more traditional feel, whereas the Lotus V2 caters to those seeking speed.
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 Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
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 best known for its deep sound signature, which is enhanced by its POK top housing that contributes to a more pronounced acoustic profile. This makes it appealing for users who appreciate a richer auditory experience while typing. However, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 does not have a well-defined sound profile attributed to it, leaving its acoustic characteristics somewhat ambiguous. This means that while the Elf will consistently provide that satisfying deep sound, the Lotus V2's auditory qualities remain uncertain and may vary depending on the build it accompanies, particularly influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Huano Elf offers a medium-light feel, which strikes a balance between being easy to press while providing enough resistance for a satisfying typing experience. This comfortable tactile resistance typically appeals to a wide range of users, from gamers to typists. Conversely, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Jerrzi Lotus V2. This lack of detail creates an unknown factor that may deter those looking for a predictable typing experience, as how it feels under the fingers could vary widely.
In conclusion, the Huano Elf linear switch stands out with its defined deep sound profile and medium-light feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a specific auditory and tactile experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Lotus V2's qualities remain largely unknown, particularly in terms of sound and feel, which means prospective users may face uncertainty regarding its performance. Consequently, if you prioritize certainty in your mechanical keyboard experience, the Elf switch is likely the safer and more rewarding choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences, typing style, and the kind of experience you want from your keyboard. If you’re seeking a switch that provides a unique acoustic signature, the Elf’s POK top housing enhances sound quality, making it ideal for those who appreciate a deep and satisfying auditory feedback while typing. The Elf also offers a medium-light feel, perfect for users who prefer a switch that is easy to actuate without sacrificing tactile feedback. On the other hand, if sound quality is less of a priority for you and you're looking for an overall smooth and consistent keystroke, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 might be the better choice, especially if it offers a more straightforward typing experience without the additional acoustic features of the Elf. Ultimately, consider how much you value sound versus the feel of the switch in your typing experience; this will guide you to the ideal switch for your setup.