Huano Elf vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the Huano Sakura both present compelling options in the realm of linear switches, each tailored to different user preferences. The Elf is recognized for its unique POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a rich, deep sound signature that pairs with a medium-light actuation force, creating a gratifying typing experience. On the other hand, the Sakura switches are designed for those who prefer a feather-light touch, offering an easy keystroke with medium acoustics, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. While both switches provide a linear feel that promotes smooth key presses without tactile feedback, the Elf caters to users who appreciate a pronounced auditory experience, whereas the Sakura is tailored for comfort during extended use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Huano Elf and Huano Sakura switches share an identical top housing material, POK (polyketone), which plays a crucial role in determining the performance characteristics of both switches. The POK material's low coefficient of friction (0.04) contributes to a naturally smooth feel, making both switches appealing for typing and gaming experiences. Furthermore, POK's exceptional durability enhances the longevity of the switches, boasting wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM and impressive shock resistance that surpasses nylon and POM alternatives. This allows both the Elf and Sakura switches to offer a similar tactile typing experience characterized by a smooth, clacky sound, evidencing that they will yield comparable auditory and haptic feedback.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the switches diverges as both utilize nylon, but their sound profiles affect the overall experience in the same way. Nylon, known for its softer composition, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Both the Huano Elf and Sakura leverage this characteristic to deliver a rich acoustic experience as you type, with the nylon's sound absorption properties working harmoniously with the POK top housing. Since both utilize the same nylon material for the bottom housing, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out compared to switches that employ harder materials.
When considering the combined effect of the differing top and bottom housings in the Huano Elf and Sakura, one can observe that while the top housing predominantly influences the release sound and overall smoothness during typing, the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Because both models employ a nylon bottom housing, the resulting acoustic profile will be similarly warmed and plush, enhancing the overall listening experience in tandem with the tactile qualities provided by the POK top housing. Therefore, while the construction might use different components, the end result maintains a cohesive blend of smooth interaction and satisfying sound across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Elf requires an actuation force of 42 grams, making it heavier than the Sakura, which has an actuation force of only 35 grams. This lighter actuation force in the Sakura may appeal to users who prefer less resistance while typing or gaming, potentially allowing for extended use without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Elf's value is unknown, while the Sakura features a bottom out force measured at 45 grams, considered light. Since we lack the bottom out force for the Elf, we cannot directly compare the two in this regard. Overall, the Huano Elf is the heavier option with a greater actuation force, whereas the Huano Sakura is lighter, appealing to those who favor a gentler typing experience.
Travel distance
The Huano Elf and Huano Sakura linear switches both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users will experience the same distance when pressing down on a key for both switches. This equivalency ensures that those using either switch will achieve similar tactile feedback and responsiveness, making them ideal for users who prioritize consistency in key presses. Since both switches have the same travel distance, there is no shorter or longer option between them; instead, they offer identical performance in terms of travel distance.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 characteristics, the Huano Elf linear switch is recognized for its deep sound signature, attributed to its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics significantly. This results in a more resonant and rich auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch has medium acoustics that provide a balanced sound profile. While the Sakura may not resonate as deeply as the Elf, its sound still offers a pleasant auditory feedback that is suitable for extended typing sessions. It's important to note that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Huano Elf switch boasts a medium-light actuation force, giving it a satisfying yet understated resistance that facilitates an enjoyable typing experience. This makes it responsive enough for rapid typing without feeling overly stiff. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch is characterized by its feather-light touch, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize a soft and effortless keystroke. This lightness can help reduce fatigue during long typing sessions, making it a popular choice for users who type for extended periods.
Combining the information on sound and feel, both the Huano Elf and Sakura switches cater to different user preferences. The Elf is ideal for those who enjoy a deeper sound and a medium-light feel, while the Sakura offers a feather-light experience with more balanced acoustics. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize richer sound or an ultra-light typing experience, but both switches are designed to provide a satisfying performance in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize acoustics and desire a deeper sound signature during your typing experience, the Elf switch may be your best choice; its POK top housing enhances the sound profile while providing a medium-light feel that many find satisfying. However, if you're looking for a switch that excels in extended typing sessions with a feather-light touch, the Sakura switch is the way to go, offering a lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams and medium acoustics that can minimize finger fatigue over long periods. Ultimately, choose the Elf for a more pronounced acoustics experience and tactile feedback, while the Sakura caters to those who favor comfort and ease during prolonged use. Select based on your typing style and the atmosphere you want to create with your keyboard.
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