Huano Elf vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the Outemu Black both fall into the linear category, offering smooth keystrokes ideal for gaming and typing alike. The Huano Elf is notable for its POK top housing which not only enhances acoustics but also delivers a rich, deep sound signature along with a medium-light actuation feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a satisfying and tactile typing experience without the sound associated with clicks or tactile bumps. On the other hand, while the Outemu Black lacks distinct branding features, it provides a straightforward, consistent linear response that can greatly appeal to gamers seeking a more traditional linear feel, characterized by its firmness and durability. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference: whether one prioritizes the acoustic quality and lighter feel of the Elf or the robust and steady performance of the Black. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Elf and Outemu Black switches present a fascinating comparison in their choice of top housing materials, which are designed to optimize the sound and feel of each switch. The Elf utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing known for its low coefficient of friction, attributed to superior smoothness in key presses. Measuring at 0.04, the POK material offers a slightly increased resistance compared to the Outemu Black's polycarbonate top, which is recognized for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate's stiffer composition not only contributes to a resonant auditory experience but also enhances RGB lighting visibility when the housing is clear. Therefore, while the Elf's POK delivers smooth, clacky performance, the Outemu Black focuses on creating clarity and vibrancy in sound, demonstrating their differing approaches to achieving optimal switch performance.
In contrast, both the Huano Elf and Outemu Black switches share identical bottom housing materials, with both utilizing Nylon. This classic switch housing material tends to absorb sound more effectively due to its softer plastic properties, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. The similarity in bottom housing means that regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, both switches will produce a rounded and subdued auditory result during key presses, maintaining a consistent experience in terms of sound dampening and tactile feedback. As such, while the top housings serve distinct purposes that cater to various preferences for sound and smoothness, the fundamental acoustic qualities provided by Nylon remain unchanged.
Ultimately, the interaction of the top and bottom housings greatly influences the overall switch performance. The differences in top housing materials allow for varied sound profiles: the Elf’s POK material emphasizes smooth action and a clacky sound during release, while the Outemu Black’s polycarbonate accentuates clarity upon key presses. However, with both switches grounding their sound profiles in the warmth and fullness provided by their identical nylon bottom housings, users can expect a rich auditory experience regardless of their choice. This juxtaposition highlights how material selection impacts not just the perceived quality of a switch, but also the overall dynamic interplay between the various components at play.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the two offer different experiences in terms of actuation force and bottom-out force. The Huano Elf has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, which can facilitate longer typing sessions and may be preferable for those seeking a comfortable work or gaming environment. However, its bottom-out force remains unknown, making it impossible to fully assess the feel of the switch when pressed down completely. In contrast, the Outemu Black features a significantly heavier actuation force at 65 grams and a bottom-out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. This means that while the Elf is easier to press, the Black offers a stronger push that may suit those desiring more resistance. Overall, if you prioritize lighter keys, the Huano Elf is the better choice, while the Outemu Black caters to users who appreciate a firmer typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Huano Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Black extends to 4 mm. As such, the Elf has the shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for gaming enthusiasts who favor quicker actuation. Conversely, the Black's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper keypress that may be preferred by users who appreciate a more pronounced feel when typing. While shorter travel distances can lead to faster response times, some users might find the abruptness of these swipes less satisfying. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect your personal preference for depth and responsiveness in your typing or gaming 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 is renowned for its deep, resonant acoustic profile, enhanced by its POK top housing which contributes to a rich sound experience. This design choice promotes a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have any notable sound characteristics associated with it, making it harder to evaluate its auditory appeal. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound profile can be influenced significantly by the selection of keyboard housing and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch is recognized for delivering a medium-light resistance that strikes a balance between comfort and control, making for an enjoyable typing experience. This allows users to type swiftly without excessive force. The Outemu Black switch, meanwhile, does not have a specific feel profile widely attributed to it, meaning that its tactile feedback may be less distinct than that of the Elf switch. Consequently, the experience may vary more depending on user preferences and individual setups.
In summary, while the Huano Elf linear switch offers a well-defined auditory and tactile experience due to its design and characteristics, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks specific descriptors to help gauge its performance in these areas. If you're looking for a deeper sound and a pleasant typing feel, the Elf is the way to go; conversely, you might find the Black more variable depending on your configuration. Ultimately, the unique sound and feel of each switch can greatly enhance the typing experience, but personal preference will play a crucial role in your satisfaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, your choice should align with your specific typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a keyboard that offers a more tactile acoustic experience with a medium-light feel, the Huano Elf is an excellent choice. It is designed to enhance sound quality, making it ideal for those who value auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, if you often type for extended periods or enjoy a lighter touch, the Elf can provide a more comfortable experience without feeling overly strenuous on your fingers. On the other hand, if you seek a more substantial key press, the Outemu Black switch is the clear winner, offering a heavier bottom-out force which can be beneficial for users who prefer a decisive actuation, particularly in gaming or when performing tasks that require more deliberate keystrokes. The heavier resistance may also help to minimize accidental presses. Ultimately, your selection should hinge on whether you prioritize a satisfying acoustic response and a lighter feel versus a more robust typing experience that comes with a heavier actuation.
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