Huano Elf vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances of different options is crucial. The Huano Elf switch is renowned for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and provides a deep sound signature along with a medium-light actuation force, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. This makes the Elf an excellent choice for users who appreciate a balanced feel and rich auditory feedback during their typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch stands out with its bouncy type feel, courtesy of a 22mm long spring, complemented by a polycarbonate milky top housing and a low-pitched sound profile. Its frictionless action—further enhanced by factory-lubing—offers a remarkably smooth key travel, appealing to those who prioritize a fluid typing experience. While both switches offer their unique advantages, the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences in feel and sound. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Huano Elf and KTT Orange offer distinct and contrasting housing materials that significantly influence the overall sound profile and performance of their respective switches. The top housing of the Elf is made of polyketone (POK), known for its strength and slightly higher coefficient of friction compared to other materials like LY. This material not only ensures durability and longevity—being fourteen times more resistant to wear than POM—but also contributes to a smooth, clacky feel that appeals to many enthusiasts. In contrast, the KTT Orange employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. As a stiffer plastic, it enhances clarity and resonance, particularly beneficial for users who prefer a more vibrant auditory experience, especially when RGB lighting is present. Thus, while both switching technologies provide engaging tactile experiences, they do so using vastly different acoustic characteristics.
The bottom housing materials of the two switches further distinguish them in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback. The Huano Elf utilizes nylon, a classic option for switch housings known for its ability to emit a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer nature allows for sound absorption, resulting in a subdued and rounder auditory experience that many users find comforting. Conversely, the KTT Orange features a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the properties of its top housing, leading to a crisper and more resonant sound. This consistency in bottom housing material promotes a sharper auditory impact, contrasting with the ELF’s more rounded sound profile. Consequently, these variations create diverse user experiences when the switches are activated, from tactile feedback to auditory output.
When both top and bottom housings are considered, the combination of materials contributes to the ultimate performance of the switches. For the Huano Elf, the durable and smooth POK top housing works synergistically with the sound-absorbing nylon bottom, delivering a unique balance of tactile satisfaction and auditory depth. On the other hand, the KTT Orange's use of polycarbonate in both housing sections creates a seamless experience characterized by sharper sounds and a consistent resonance. This means that while the sound profiles differ markedly—duller and fuller versus sharper and crisper—users can still achieve similar satisfaction in tactile feedback and overall performance within their mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between these materials boils down to personal preference as both offer intriguing attributes suited to various typing styles and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Huano Elf has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer less resistance and can type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Orange requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams, offering a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Huano Elf is unavailable, while the KTT Orange has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams. This suggests that the KTT Orange may provide a more defined bottoming out sensation. Overall, those seeking a lighter touch might gravitate towards the Huano Elf, while those desiring more heft in their keystrokes may opt for the KTT Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, the Elf switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Orange switch measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the KTT Orange the shorter option, and in this case, choosing the Elf switch might offer a more pronounced tactile experience, appealing to users who appreciate a deeper press. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Orange switch could be more favorable for gamers seeking rapid response times. If the key feeling of a switch is a primary concern, understanding these differences can guide users toward their personal preferences for either a more responsive or a deeper keypress experience.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Elf linear switch produces a deep sound signature that resonates well thanks to its POK top housing, which is designed to enhance acoustics. This gives the Elf a pleasant auditory profile that can be quite satisfying while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound, which is generally bass-heavy and mellow, creating a smooth auditory experience. While both switches have their distinct qualities, the overall sound will also depend significantly on the keyboard build and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Elf offers a medium-light tactile experience, allowing for a comfortable typing session that balances responsiveness and ease of use, though the specifics of its tactile feedback aren't detailed. Conversely, the KTT Orange is noted for its bouncy feel, providing an elastic feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience with a lively rebound effect. Its frictionless operation, attributed to a well-lubed mechanism, ensures an exceptionally smooth key travel that minimizes resistance, resulting in a very fluid typing experience. Therefore, the Orange may deliver a more dynamic typing sensation than the Elf.
In summary, both the Huano Elf and KTT Orange linear switches offer unique benefits tailored toward different preferences. The Elf focuses on an enriching sound experience with a moderate feel, while the Orange emphasizes a smooth, joyful typing experience with its bouncy and frictionless qualities. If you're considering these switches, rest assured that you'll enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either, though each will cater to distinct aspects of your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, your choice should align with your personal typing preferences and use cases. If you value a deep sound signature and enhanced acoustics, the Elf might be your go-to option. Its medium-light feel can provide a satisfying typing experience, especially for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing. However, if you prefer a slick, frictionless typing experience that feels bouncy and lively, the KTT Orange switch is likely the better fit. Thanks to its longer spring and factory-lubing, it offers a smooth and elastic feedback that can make quick typing sessions more enjoyable. Essentially, choose the Elf for a more acoustic-focused typing experience with a robust sound profile, while opting for the Orange if you prioritize a fluid, responsive feel with minimal resistance. Ultimately, both switches cater to different aspects of typing enjoyment, so consider which elements matter most to you in your daily use.
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