Huano Elf vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the Gateron Type S offer distinct experiences that cater to varying preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Huano Elf, known for its POK top housing, enhances acoustics and produces a deep sound signature paired with a medium-light feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying and responsive typing experience without the fatigue of a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out as a flagship choice from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" series, characterized by a weighty 65g bottom-out force that provides a substantial keystroke for users who favor a more robust touch. Additionally, its neutral and subdued sound profile walks the line between deep acoustics and balanced tones, making it versatile for various environments. Choosing between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding tactile feedback and sound characteristics; 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Gateron Type S switches, a clear contrast emerges in the composition of the top housings, while their bottom housings share similarities. The Elf utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which is noted for its lower coefficient of friction and superior durability compared to traditional materials like POM and Nylon. The POK material offers exceptional wear resistance and shock resilience, making it an ideal choice for switches that demand not only a smooth typing experience but also longevity. Conversely, the Type S employs a classic nylon top housing that provides a subtly different tactile experience, with a slightly higher coefficient of friction. While this may lead to a different feel when typing, the sound profile produced by the nylon, which absorbs more sound, contributes to a deeper and fuller auditory experience.
On the other hand, both the Huano Elf and Gateron Type S incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a shared trait: the capacity to create a muffled sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches promotes a more rounded and deeper auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. Given that both switches utilize the same material in this section, it can be expected that the bottom-out sound and feel will be quite similar, lending a consistent experience despite the differences in the top housing. This shared material yields benefits in terms of sound absorption, contributing to a pleasing typing experience across both competing models.
In conclusion, while the Huano Elf and Gateron Type S switches display stark differences in their top housing materials—each yielding distinct tactile experiences—their identical use of nylon in the bottom housing effectively ties the overall sound profile together. Users can anticipate a more muffled, full sound when bottoming out, regardless of the top housing material in use. Thus, although the Elf may offer a smoother and more durable typing experience due to its POK top, both switches share an auditory harmony derived from their nylon bottoms, suggesting that one can achieve satisfying results by carefully selecting the right switch for their desired acoustic and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch to the Gateron Type S linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Huano Elf has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer less resistance while typing, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Type S features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some typists and gamers may prefer for a firmer keystroke. While the bottom out force for the Elf is not available, the Type S has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating that it requires more effort to press the key all the way down compared to the Elf, whose bottom out characteristics are unknown. Therefore, users seeking a lighter experience might gravitate towards the Huano Elf, whereas those who enjoy a more robust typing experience would likely choose the Gateron Type S due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Huano Elf linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Elf the shorter option of the two, providing a more responsive feel that can be appealing for gamers seeking quicker actuation times. In contrast, the Type S, with its longer travel distance, offers a more traditional experience that some users may find more comfortable, as it allows for a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may depend on personal preference: those who favor speed and rapid response might gravitate towards the Huano Elf, while individuals who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keypresses may opt for the Gateron Type S.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 renowned for its deep sound signature, which is enhanced by its POK top housing designed for improved acoustics. This quality contributes to a richer auditory experience when typing, appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced sound profile. Compared to the Gateron Type S, which has a more neutral and subdued sound signature, the Elf tends to produce a deeper and more resonant tone. The Type S leans towards a balanced auditory experience, making it versatile for various uses, such as home or office environments. Both switches may have varying sound characteristics based on the keyboard build and keycap selection, but the Elf generally stands out for its deeper acoustic presence.
When it comes to feel, the Elf features a medium-light keystroke, providing a satisfying typing experience that blends comfort and responsiveness. In contrast, the Type S has a heavier weight of 65g at bottom-out, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. This discrepancy means that while the Elf may feel easier to actuate and more fluid during typing, the Type S will likely deliver a more deliberate and tactile experience that some users might find more satisfying, especially for extended typing sessions. Each switch offers distinct tactile feedback, with the Elf being lighter and potentially snappier, while the Type S feels weightier and more deliberate.
In summary, the Huano Elf linear switch and Gateron Type S linear switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Elf is appealing for those seeking a deeper and acoustically rich typing experience with a medium-light touch, while the Type S offers a heavier keystroke with a balanced and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for all kinds of environments. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual user preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, and both options provide unique qualities that can elevate the typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you seek a softer typing experience with a deeper sound signature, the Elf may be the right fit for you, especially if you enjoy a more ethereal acoustics and a lightly weighted keypress. This switch excels in providing a nuanced sound profile that can enhance your overall typing ambiance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel under your fingers, with a heavier bottom-out force for added tactile feedback, then the Gateron Type S will likely serve you better. Its well-balanced sound profile, leaning towards neutrality, makes it versatile for both work and casual use, catering to a variety of environments whether you're gaming or typing away in an office. Ultimately, consider both your sound preferences and the required actuation force when making your decision; picking the switch that aligns with how you want to feel while you type can significantly impact your overall experience.
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