Huano Elf vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and typing environment. The Huano Elf switch stands out for its unique POK top housing, which enhances acoustics to produce a deep sound signature while offering a medium-light feel, creating a pleasing and engaging typing experience. Its design makes it an attractive option for those who appreciate auditory feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers the familiar feel of the original MX Red but with a crucial twist—it's engineered for silent operation. This makes it an excellent choice for users in noise-sensitive environments who still desire a satisfying tactile experience. Both switches cater to different needs: the Elf is great for those who enjoy a pronounced yet not overpowering sound, while the Silent Red is perfect for a quiet workspace without sacrificing the beloved linear switch characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique preferences.
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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Huano Elf and Cherry MX Silent Red switches showcase both unique characteristics and surprising similarities, particularly in their effectiveness in enhancing user experience. The Elf employs a POK material for its top housing, recognized for its low coefficient of friction (0.04) and remarkable durability, boasting wear resistance that outperforms traditional materials like POM and Nylon. This not only contributes to a smoother keystroke but also ensures longevity under intensive use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which, while providing a fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, may not match the durability and smoothness of the POK material. However, the sound profile of the MX switch is richer since the nylon absorbs sound effectively, creating a distinct auditory experience for typists.
Both the Huano Elf and the Cherry MX Silent Red feature nylon for their bottom housing, indicating a shared approach to enhancing auditory and tactile feedback. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a rounder and deeper sound when bottoming out—this plays a significant role in the overall user experience. Since the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the similarity in material choices here means both switches will deliver a satisfying acoustic response. The characteristics of the nylon on both switches ensure that users will enjoy a consistent sound profile, adding a layer of familiarity for those transitioning between the two.
In summarizing the two switches' housing materials, we note the blend of innovative design in the Huano Elf’s POK upper while retaining a classic feel with nylon on the bottom housing, a choice mirrored by the Cherry MX Silent Red. While the differences in the top housing materials result in varying tactile and sound interactions, the nylon bottom housing creates a cohesive sensory experience that resonates across both switches. By integrating high-performance materials that maintain each switch's unique qualities, users can expect similar satisfaction in sound and feel, regardless of the brand or specific design nuances.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we see a slight difference in their actuation forces. The Huano Elf requires an actuation force of 42 grams, making it the lighter option, while the Cherry MX Silent Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, meaning we can't compare that aspect directly. However, since the Elf is lighter in actuation force, it may be preferable for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may gravitate toward the heavier Cherry MX Silent Red. Ultimately, if both switches had similar bottom out forces, users could expect comparable typing experiences, but the actuation force difference suggests a preference toward lighter feel with the Huano Elf.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference, though minimal, makes the Huano Elf a better option for those seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances generally lead to more responsive key presses. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for users who favor deeper key presses and a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding the balance between responsiveness and key depth, with the Huano Elf being the shorter option and the Cherry MX Silent Red being the longer one.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 sound profile of the Huano Elf linear switch is characterized by a deep sound signature that enhances the typing experience, making it feel more substantial and satisfying when a key is pressed. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is designed to operate quietly, featuring a muted, thocky sound that produces a soft "thud" when engaged. The Silent Red delivers this sound in a low-pitched manner, minimizing typical keyboard noise and making it an excellent choice for users in noise-sensitive environments. While both switches provide unique auditory experiences, the Elf's deeper sound appeals to those who enjoy a richer acoustic feedback, while the Silent Red caters to users prioritizing a quieter operation.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Elf switch boasts a medium-light actuation force, allowing for smooth and satisfying keystrokes without requiring much effort. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a slightly heftier feel compared to the Elf, which may present a different typing experience. Additionally, the Silent Red is noted for being textured, providing a noticeable friction that some users might find desirable. The Elf's feel is less defined in terms of texture, but it excels in delivering a balanced typing experience that could appeal to a wide range of typists. Both switches deliver satisfying tactile feedback, but their differing actuation forces and textures will cater to varying user preferences.
In conclusion, the Huano Elf and Cherry MX Silent Red linear switches present distinct yet appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Elf offers a deeper sound profile and a medium-light feel, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate rich acoustics. Meanwhile, the Silent Red emphasizes a quieter operation while maintaining a heavier feel with a textured sensation, suitable for those in need of a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, users will find that both switches can provide satisfying results, but the choice between them will largely depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, you should consider your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you desire a deeper sound signature and a medium-light feel that delivers an engaging and satisfying typing experience, the Huano Elf would be a compelling choice. Its unique POK top housing enhances acoustics, making each keystroke feel more substantial and enjoyably resonant. On the other hand, if you work in a noise-sensitive environment or simply prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the feel of a classic linear switch, then the Cherry MX Silent Red is ideal for you. It retains the slightly heftier feel of the MX Red while providing a muted sound profile, perfect for late-night gaming or office use without disturbing others. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize acoustics and feedback or a discreet and smooth typing experience.
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