Huano Elf vs. Outemu Blue

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Elf and Outemu Blue offer two distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Huano Elf, renowned for its POK top housing, delivers a smooth linear action with a medium-light feel, creating a satisfying typing experience that emphasizes responsiveness and fluidity. It’s ideal for gamers or typists who appreciate a clean keystroke without the distraction of audible clicks. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is characterized by its pronounced tactile feedback and distinct click sound, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a classic typing experience steeped in auditory cues. This switch is particularly appealing for writers and programmers who thrive on feedback while typing. Each switch has its unique advantages, making the choice largely dependent on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Elf Linear

Outemu Blue Clicky

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Outemu Blue switches, it is evident that the top housing materials differ significantly in their composition and the auditory results they produce. The Elf employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which boasts a low coefficient of friction (0.04) and exceptional durability, surpassing that of commonly used materials like POM and Nylon. This results in switches characterized by smooth actuation and a clacky sound upon release. In contrast, the Outemu Blue uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which is recognized for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and translucency. This quality is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, as a clear polycarbonate housing enhances visibility of the lighting effects. Therefore, while both materials enable smooth functionality, they create distinct auditory experiences—POK leaning towards a smooth and clacky resonance, while polycarbonate provides a clearer, sharper sound.

Looking at the bottom housing of both switches, they share a common material: nylon. The properties of nylon are consistent across both switch types, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's relatively softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound as compared to harder plastics. Consequently, when an Elf or Blue switch is pressed, users will experience a similar bottom-out sound and feel due to the identical bottom housing material. Thus, although the top housings differ significantly—affecting the switches' key release sounds—the bottom housings harmonize to create a fuller typing experience through their shared nylon construction.

In summation, the differences and similarities in housing materials greatly influence the overall performance and sound profile of both the Huano Elf and Outemu Blue switches. The Elf leverages the unique characteristics of POK to achieve smoothness and durability, resulting in distinct clacky sounds, whereas the Outemu Blue enhances auditory clarity with its polycarbonate top housing, conducive for RGB lighting displays. However, the consistent use of nylon in both bottom housings bridges the gap between them, ensuring that despite their top housing disparities, the overall typing experience remains robust and enjoyable, marrying a deep sound profile with engaging tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force reveal key differences in feel and usability. The Huano Elf has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the Outemu Blue requires a heavier 50 grams to register a keystroke. This lighter actuation force of the Elf could be advantageous for users who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. Unfortunately, both switches lack specific values for their bottom out forces, making it difficult to directly compare their performance when pressed fully down. However, based on the known actuation forces, users seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer the heavier feel of the Outemu Blue, whereas those looking for a more effortless typing experience would likely opt for the Huano Elf. In summary, while the Elf is the lighter option, the lack of the bottom out force data for both switches leaves some questions unanswered regarding their overall actuation characteristics.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, there’s a noticeable difference. The Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Blue boasts a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Huano Elf switch is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that gamers often favor for quicker acts. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch, with its longer travel distance, offers a deeper press which may appeal to users who appreciate a more tactile and substantial feedback during typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you're looking for quicker response times, the Elf would be the preferred choice, whereas the Blue will give a more robust sensation under your fingertips.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Elf linear switch is recognized for its deep sound signature, which adds a rich auditory experience to typing. Its POK top housing enhances acoustics, ensuring a more pronounced sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its distinctive, crisp click when pressed, giving it a more engaging auditory feedback. These sound qualities can vary based on the specific keyboard and keycap materials used, but both switches offer unique auditory experiences catered to different preferences.

Regarding feel, the Elf switch provides a medium-light feel that makes for a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, allowing for smooth keystrokes without being too taxing on the fingers. The Outemu Blue, being a clicky switch, offers a tactile bump followed by a distinct click, which some typists find very satisfying. This tactile feedback can be invigorating for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience, but it may not appeal to users who prefer a quieter and smoother feel.

In summary, the Huano Elf linear switch stands out with its deep sound signature and medium-light feel, making it ideal for those seeking a soft yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch offers a sharp click and tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy engaging sound and feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, as both offer distinctive qualities tailored to different typing styles.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you seek. If you favor a quieter, more fluid typing experience that allows for rapid key presses, the Huano Elf switch would be the better choice for you. Its medium-light feel makes it ideal for long typing sessions, especially if you’re using your keyboard for gaming or coding where speed is essential. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and the nostalgic sound of clicky switches, the Outemu Blue may be more suited to your needs. The pronounced click and tactile bump are delightful for typists who appreciate auditory and physical responses during their typing. Ultimately, consider your use case: if you’re looking for a smooth, subtle experience, go with the Elf, but if you thrive on feedback and enjoy a more traditional typing sound, the Blue is likely your best bet. Your choices will significantly enhance your overall satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more