Huano Elf vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and Outemu Silver present two distinct options for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Huano Elf stands out with its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also produces a deep sound signature that many users find satisfying. Thanks to its medium-light actuation force, the Elf offers a comfortable typing experience suitable for both gaming and typing tasks, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize acoustics and a balanced feel. In contrast, while the Outemu Silver doesn't carry a specific defining feature mentioned, it typically appeals to gamers looking for a quick and responsive linear switch. The lighter actuation force of the Silver can potentially facilitate faster key presses, which is particularly advantageous in competitive gaming scenarios. Ultimately, both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts but target slightly different preferences. 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 Silver Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Huano Elf and Outemu Silver switches provide a compelling study in contrasts, particularly within their top housings. The Huano Elf utilizes polyketone (POK), a material characterized by a very low coefficient of friction at 0.04, which promotes a smooth tactile experience. This smoothness is complemented by its exceptional durability, as POK is noted to be 14 times more wear-resistant than POM and boasts superior shock resistance against competing materials like Nylon. In stark contrast, the Outemu Silver employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which while also delivering a smooth feel, is more rigid. This rigidity lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile when compared to the clacky quality provided by the Elf's POK top housing. Both materials contribute to an overall distinct yet interactive typing experience—where POK shines in durability and smoothness, polycarbonate excels in sound clarity.

When examining the bottom housings, both the Huano Elf and Outemu Silver use nylon, a classic material known for its acoustic properties. The nylon bottom housing in both switches offers a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer, sound-absorbing qualities. This commonality blurs the distinction between the two switches in terms of auditory feedback, as both elicit a similar audio experience that is characterized by a rounder and more muted sound. Given that the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, the nylon component serves as a unifying feature in their overall sound profile. Hence, while the Elf and Silver diverge in their top material choices, they converge in a similarly rich bottom housing experience.

In summary, the combination of the Huano Elf's POK top housing and nylon bottom housing emphasizes durability and smoothness, while the Outemu Silver's polycarbonate top enhances sound clarity, complemented by the nurturing acoustic properties of nylon below. If we were to compare their performance, we would see that the differing top materials significantly alter the overall typing experience, from sound to feel. However, the common use of nylon in both switches ensures a deeper, fuller auditory experience, highlighting how each switch still possesses its unique character. Thus, the interplay of each material in their respective housing leads to distinct results, despite sharing a common use of nylon, showcasing both diversity and harmony in the design of keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we see key differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Huano Elf has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it the lighter option, which can be beneficial for users who prefer a keyboard that allows for extended typing sessions or gaming without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Silver requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more substantial typing experience sought by those who appreciate a firmer feel in their keystrokes. However, the bottom out force for the Huano Elf is unavailable, while the Outemu Silver has a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This means that while the Elf is easier to actuate, users won’t have a comparable bottom out experience, as the Silver provides a noticeable resistance when reaching the end of the keystroke. Ultimately, if seeking lighter key presses and less resistance when typing, the Huano Elf would be the preferable choice, whereas the Outemu Silver caters to those who favor a firmer touch coupled with a significant bottom out sensation.

Travel distance

The Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch differ in their travel distances, which can significantly impact typing and gaming experiences. The Elf switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter option that may appeal to those seeking quicker response times for gaming. In contrast, the Silver switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, offering a more traditional depth that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing feel. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Elf switch will likely serve you better due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you appreciate a more deliberate keystroke, the Silver switch, with its longer travel distance, may be the ideal choice for you. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, they provide distinct experiences based on their varying travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound produced by the Huano Elf linear switch is characterized by a deep sound signature, thanks to its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and provides a rich auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific descriptions of its sound qualities, leaving a gap in detailed audio profiling. However, it is important to note that the sound of any switch can be significantly influenced by the keyboard build and keycap material, which can lead to variations in acoustics regardless of the switch used.

When it comes to feel, the Huano Elf switch offers a medium-light tactile experience, making it easy to type quickly while still providing enough resistance for a satisfying tactile feedback. The Outemu Silver switch has no explicit description of its feel, leaving newcomers uncertain about its responsiveness or tactile characteristics. As such, when choosing between these switches, the Elf’s known medium-light feel might appeal to those who prefer a balance between speed and comfort in a typing experience, while the Silver's feel remains unknown.

In summary, the Huano Elf linear switch distinguishes itself through its notable sound profile and a medium-light feel that enhances the typing experience. The Outemu Silver, while lacking specific details in sound and feel, may still offer a satisfactory performance depending on personal preference and the specific keyboard setup. Ultimately, if you favor the structured acoustic characteristics and tactile response of the Elf, you can expect a well-rounded typing experience, while with the Silver, you would need to explore further to determine its suitability for your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you'll want to consider your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and actuation force. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a unique sound signature, the Elf might be the ideal choice for you. Its POK top housing contributes to acoustics, creating a deep sound that many typists find satisfying. This switch is perfect for extended typing sessions where a medium-light feel can reduce finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you like a more robust keypress and don't mind a bit of resistance, the Outemu Silver could suit you better. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, it provides a firmer tactile feedback that some users may find reassuring, especially during gaming where precision is vital. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and priorities—whether you lean towards a lighter, acoustically pleasing feel with the Elf or a more substantial, purposeful action with the Silver.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more