Huano Elf vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and specific typing experiences. The Huano Elf switch stands out with its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also produces a deep sound signature paired with a medium-light feel. This combination creates a satisfying typing experience that can appeal to users seeking a blend of tactile feedback and auditory pleasure. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is characterized by its eye-catching pink and clear housings, celebrated for its silky-smooth actuation and comfortable feel. This switch is perfect for those who prioritize a frictionless typing experience with reliable performance. Both switches have their unique charm, catering to different needs and preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the KTT Strawberry switches, distinct differences emerge in both the top and bottom housings. The Elf employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing, known for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability, boasting wear resistance far surpassing that of POM. In contrast, the Strawberry utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which produces a crisp and resonant sound profile due to its stiffness. This difference suggests that while the POK material contributes to a smooth and durable typing experience, the polycarbonate material is designed to enhance sound clarity and aesthetics, especially in setups featuring RGB lighting.
The bottom housings present a more contrasting scenario between the two switches. The Elf's nylon bottom housing is noted for its softness, which absorbs sound to create a warmer, deeper acoustic profile as one types. This soft material absorbs vibrations more effectively, resulting in a fuller sound when the switch is pressed. Conversely, the Strawberry's bottom housing also utilizes polycarbonate, which leads to a sharper and more high-pitched audio output. This further reinforces the overall sound and feel of the Strawberry's typing experience, creating a clearer auditory feedback compared to the Elf. Therefore, the differing materials used for the bottom housing play a significant role in defining the sound quality and sensory experience of each switch.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in the Huano Elf and KTT Strawberry switches results in two distinct typing experiences. While both switches can achieve notable performance, they cater to different sound preferences and tactile feedback through their unique material choices. The Elf favors a smooth and durable interaction with its POK top housing and nylon bottom, ideal for a softer feel, whereas the Strawberry focuses on brightness and clarity with its polycarbonate materials across the board. This divergence in approach illustrates how varying materials can lead to distinctly different switch characteristics, even as they might aim for similar results in typing enjoyment.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces. The Elf has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it lighter and possibly more comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Strawberry requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams, providing a marginally more substantial feel when typing. However, the Strawberry features a known bottom out force of 62 grams, which indicates that it requires greater force to fully depress the key, adding to its heavier overall experience. On the other hand, the Elf’s bottom out force remains unknown, but since it lacks a specified value, it may not provide the same tactile feedback one might expect from the Strawberry's pronounced bottom-out feel. Consequently, users looking for a lighter switch for longer usage might lean towards the Huano Elf, while those preferring a more robust typing experience might favor the KTT Strawberry.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, the Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Strawberry features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Elf switch is better suited for gamers or users who prioritize a shorter actuation point for faster response times, enhancing their overall gaming experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more considerable depth and a less abrupt feel when pressing the keys. Overall, if you prefer a more responsive and swift typing experience, the Huano Elf offers an advantage due to its shorter 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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 switch offers a deep sound signature that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. This characteristic is largely due to its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and results in a rich, full-bodied tone. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, which imparts a bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches can produce enjoyable auditory experiences, the Elf delivers a deeper resonance, whereas the Strawberry tends to be smoother and more subdued in comparison. Ultimately, the overall sound characteristic of each switch can still be influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch exhibits a medium-light resistance, providing a balanced typing experience that many users find comfortable and satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is distinguished by its frictionless action, which creates an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. It boasts a silky, buttery, and polished quality, ensuring that each keystroke feels fluid and seamless. This experience can lead to less fatigue during extended typing sessions. While both switches aim to enhance the overall tactile experience, the Strawberry offers a notably smoother feel that sets it apart from the Elf, which still maintains a pleasure-filled typing experience with its own unique characteristics.
In conclusion, the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences, each catering to particular preferences. While the Elf emphasizes a deeper audio profile and a medium-light feel, the Strawberry excels in delivering a frictionless, silky touch with a low-pitched sound. If you're evaluating switches for your mechanical keyboard, consider how these differences align with your personal preferences, as each switch can bring its unique charm to your typing setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prioritize. If you're looking for a switch that offers a unique sound signature with a medium-light feel, the Elf may suit your preferences well, particularly if you enjoy a deep acoustic profile while typing. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate a distinct auditory experience without being overly demanding in terms of actuation force. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more polished typing experience with a more tactile feedback and moderate resistance, the KTT Strawberry is a strong contender. Its reliable performance, along with its silky and buttery actuation, makes it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming applications, especially if you enjoy the satisfying feedback of a 62-gram bottom-out force. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value sound characteristics and a lighter touch over smoothness and resistance.
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