Huano Elf vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a deep sound signature, paired with a medium-light feel that makes for a satisfying linear typing experience, ideal for those who favor smooth keystrokes without tactile distractions. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches are characterized by their sharp tactile feedback, featuring a unique PBT housing that gives them a premium feel. With a pronounced downstroke bump and an even more accentuated upstroke bump, they create a hypertactile sensation that is not only satisfying but also provides a distinct and impactful auditory response, appealing to users who enjoy a tactile and auditory feedback during typing. While the Elf may be preferred by those who seek a seamless and quieter session, the Moyu Blacks will likely attract those who relish a more engaged and dynamic typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade), it becomes apparent that each switch employs distinct top housing materials that contribute to their unique characteristics. The Elf utilizes a POK top housing, known for its exceptional smoothness due to a low coefficient of friction (0.04), which is slightly higher than that of LY at 0.03. This not only enhances the tactile experience when typing but also provides durability, as POK is significantly more resistant to wear—14 times stronger than POM and boasting superior shock resistance. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) features a PBT top housing, which is less common in switch design. PBT is recognized for offering a neutral sound profile, keeping the auditory experience balanced without leaning too crisp or too dull. This difference in top materials suggests that while the Huano Elf may provide a smoother typing experience, the Moyu Black focuses on achieving a more understated sound profile.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences continue to mark the distinct identities of these switches. The Elf's nylon bottom housing is characterized by its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributable to its softer nature that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This absorption contributes to a rounder, more subdued auditory feedback, creating a unique typing experience. Conversely, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) employs a PBT bottom housing as well, which is reported to provide a neutral sound profile akin to its top housing. This means that while each housing has its own auditory characteristics, the combination of the top and bottom materials for the Moyu Black will likely produce a consistent neutral sound throughout, contrasting with the Elf's combination that balances smoothness with a more pronounced bottom-out sound.
Overall, the differences in housing materials translate into varied tactile and auditory experiences when typing on these switches. The Huano Elf’s POK top and nylon bottom create a smooth feel along with a clackier tonal profile, making it a choice for users who prefer pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black’s use of PBT in both top and bottom allows for a uniform and more neutral sound experience, ideal for those seeking a less pronounced click with each keystroke. While these materials excel in their unique qualities, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit through different means—indicating that a user's preference will ultimately dictate which of these switches aligns better with their needs.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces highlight their unique characteristics. The Elf features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it a more suitable choice for users who favor a softer touch and extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Moyu Black has a stronger actuation force of 50 grams and a defined bottom out force of 67 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. While the bottom out force of the Elf switch remains unknown, the significant difference in the known bottom out force of the Moyu Black suggests a more pronounced tactile feedback when fully depressed. Consequently, for lighter and more prolonged usage, the Huano Elf is preferable, whereas the Everglide Moyu Black is suited for users who appreciate a firm keystroke.
Travel distance
The Huano Elf linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference means that the Elf switch offers a more responsive feel, which is particularly advantageous for gamers seeking quicker key presses. In contrast, the Moyu Black switch's 4.0 mm travel distance provides a more robust and supportive sensation, making it appealing for those who appreciate a deeper and more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, if you prefer the rapid response and agility associated with shorter travel distances, the Huano Elf would be your go-to option. However, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback with a classic depth, the Everglide Moyu Black is the better choice.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 characterized by a deep sound signature that resonates well with typists looking for a robust auditory feedback. Its medium-light feel allows for a satisfying sound when pressed, giving it a pleasant and fulfilling resonance. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offers a sharp sound profile, possessing a clean and snappy auditory output as a result of its strong tactile feedback. The sound produced during keystrokes is described as punchy, particularly accentuated at the downstroke, providing a distinct auditory experience during use. While both switches have their unique sound qualities, the Elf focuses on depth whereas the Moyu Black emphasizes a sharp and vibrant profile.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Elf features a medium-light tactile sensation, making it suitable for those who prefer a less assertive touch while typing. In contrast, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is engineered for users who enjoy a pronounced tactile experience. The Moyu Black's sharp tactile bump generates a significant and exhilarating feedback that is distinctly felt with each keystroke. Its design evokes a hypertactile sensation during both the downstroke and upstroke, which can provide a rewarding experience for those who appreciate pronounced tactility. While the Elf offers a smoother experience, the Moyu Black excels in delivering a sharp, snappy feel that leaves no ambiguity in the tactile feedback felt during typing.
In conclusion, the Huano Elf linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch cater to different preferences for typing experiences. The Elf brings a rich and deep sound with a medium-light feel, making it ideal for users who seek auditory richness without heavy tactile feedback. Conversely, the Moyu Black provides a sharp, punchy sound accompanied by notably strong tactile feedback, suitable for those who crave an engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one prioritizes sound depth and smoother feedback or a more pronounced tactile experience combined with a crisp auditory profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch depends largely on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth, linear feel coupled with a deep sound signature for a satisfying and quiet typing experience, the Elf switch would be your best bet. Its light touch allows for effortless key presses, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where speed and smoothness are crucial. On the other hand, if you enjoy a strong tactile response and appreciate a more pronounced feedback with an impactful sound profile, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) will likely suit you better. Its medium-heavy actuation force and sharp tactile bumps create an engaging typing experience that can enhance your focus and precision. Consider what matters most to you—whether it’s a seamless glide for fluid typing or a robust tactile sensation for deliberate keystrokes—as it will guide you in selecting the switch that best complements your usage. Ultimately, both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different typing preferences, so understanding your own style will help you make the right choice.
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