Huano Elf vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the Outemu Tom each offer distinctive features that cater to different typing preferences. The Huano Elf, a linear switch, stands out for its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also delivers a satisfying deep sound signature. With a medium-light feel, it provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience that many typists and gamers appreciate for its fluidity during fast-paced gaming and typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is known for its tactile switch design, which offers a noticeable bump on actuation, allowing users to feel each keypress. This tactile feedback can be particularly advantageous for those who prefer a more traditional typing experience or who benefit from the sensory cue during long periods of writing. While each switch has its merits—be it the smoothness of the Elf or the tactile engagement of the Tom—choosing the right one ultimately depends on your personal preferences 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 comparison between the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Outemu Tom switches reveals both similarities and notable differences. The Elf utilizes a POK top housing made from polyketone, which is characterized by its smooth tactile feedback due to a coefficient of friction of 0.04, slightly higher than the LY material used in other switches. In contrast, the Tom's top housing is made of polycarbonate, a material that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its rigidity and translucency. While both materials serve to enhance the user experience, the Elf's POK focuses on smoothness and durability, making it ideal for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Tom’s polycarbonate top is more about delivering precise acoustic properties, particularly in setups that emphasize RGB lighting, highlighting how different objectives in design influence material choice.
When examining the bottom housings, the Huano Elf and Outemu Tom both utilize nylon, a classic material in switch design known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller typing experience. This commonality means that the overall sound profile when typing on either switch remains grounded and rounded, thanks to nylon's inherent properties. The similarity in bottom housing material suggests that regardless of the top housing differences, users will experience a consistent auditory depth and feel when pressing down on the keys. This shared material brings cohesion in typing feel, allowing both switches to deliver similar acoustic results despite their distinct top housings.
The differentiation in top housing materials between the Elf and Tom ultimately influences the overall sound characteristics of each switch. The Elf's POK top provides a smooth, clacky sound, while the Tom's polycarbonate offers a clearer and more resonant tone, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting setups. However, since both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the fundamental sound profile remains consistent across switches, with the bottom housing providing that resonant depth. The combination of materials underscores how the interaction between different housing materials can create a unique experience while still allowing for shared qualities, providing a well-rounded understanding of how each switch performs in practical use.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference, with the Elf requiring a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the heavier 55 grams of the Tom switch. This lighter actuation force of the Elf may appeal to users who prefer a keyboard that is easier to press, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, making it a suitable choice for work environments or extended gaming. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Tom switch can provide a more substantial typing experience, which some users may favor for a more tactile feedback during use. Both switches have an unspecified bottom out force, meaning that while we cannot compare that specific aspect, the difference in actuation force highlights the Elf as the lighter option and the Tom as the heavier one.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we find that the Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tom measures at 3.3 mm. This indicates that the Elf offers a longer travel distance compared to the Tom, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a depthier typing experience. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Tom may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances can enhance speed. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference; if you favor a more pronounced keystroke, the Huano Elf is the better option, whereas those who prefer a snappier feel may opt for the Outemu Tom.
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 Tom 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
The Huano Elf linear switch is recognized for its deep sound signature, which can create a rich auditory experience when typing. The POK top housing is designed to enhance acoustics, resulting in a deep and resonant sound that many users find satisfying and immersive. In contrast, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have a specific sound profile mentioned, it's important to note that the overall sound can vary significantly depending on the keyboard setup, including the type of board and keycaps used. Therefore, both switches may deliver distinct auditory results based on their installations, but the Elf has a more defined acoustic characteristic highlighted by its design.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Elf offers a medium-light feel, which allows for a comfortable typing experience that strikes a balance between ease of activation and control. Users often appreciate this responsiveness, especially for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch lacks specific details about its feel. Nevertheless, tactile switches in general are designed to provide a noticeable bump during actuation, which can lead to an engaging typing experience for those who prefer tactile feedback to a smoother linear feel.
In summary, the Huano Elf linear switch stands out with its deep sound and medium-light feel, offering a distinct and satisfying typing experience, especially when considering its acoustic enhancements. The Outemu Tom, while lacking specific qualitative details, typically provides the tactile feedback characteristic of its type, making it a potentially engaging option for users who prefer that sensation. Ultimately, while the Elf has clear distinctions in sound and feel, it’s important to remember that personal preference and individual keyboard setup will heavily influence the user experience for both switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, your choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. If you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-light feel and a satisfying typing experience, the Huano Elf is an excellent choice. Its unique POK top housing not only enhances its acoustics but also delivers a deep sound signature that many users find appealing, making it suitable for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback with each keystroke, the Outemu Tom would be more aligned with your needs. This switch is particularly advantageous for those who prefer the sensation of a bump when pressing a key, as it can add to the overall typing experience and improve accuracy in typing tasks. Thus, if you're looking for a quiet and smooth keyboard experience, the Elf is the way to go, whereas if you'd like the feedback and engagement of tactile switches, the Tom should be your pick.
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