Huano Elf vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the Wuque Studio WS Dash both offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Huano Elf, renowned for its POK top housing, enhances acoustics, delivering a deep sound signature with a medium-light feel that many typists find satisfying and enjoyable. This linear switch is ideal for those who prioritize smooth keystrokes without the distinct tactile feedback of more traditional switches, making it perfect for rapid typing and gaming. On the other hand, the WS Dash features innovative Hall Effect technology, boasting a captivating re-color of the highly regarded Magnetic Jade. This switch is characterized by its bright and clacky sound signature accompanied by a silky smooth keystroke, appealing to users who appreciate auditory feedback and refined aesthetics in their typing experience. While both switches have their strengths, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference regarding sound, feel, and application. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, several distinct differences emerge, particularly in their top housing compositions. The Huano Elf utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which is known for offering a smooth and durable experience, characterized by a coefficient of friction of 0.04. This makes it slightly less smooth compared to the WS Dash's polycarbonate top housing, which, while also robust, provides a sharper and more resonant sound profile due to its rigidity and clear translucency. The sound differences can play a significant role in the overall auditory experience, with the Elf's POK yielding a more clacky tone versus the higher-pitched crisps resulting from the polycarbonate used in the WS Dash.
Conversely, both switches share the same material in their bottom housings, with both incorporating nylon. This similarity brings a consistent element to their performance; nylon is renowned for its softer characteristics, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared material ensures that users experiencing these switches will feel a similar bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, lending a familiar roundness to each keystroke whether on the Elf or the WS Dash. Thus, while the top housings differ appreciably in their acoustic qualities, the nylon bottom housing standardizes and deepens the auditory experience across both models.
Ultimately, the difference in top housing materials suggests that the overall sound output and feeling of the switches will vary, tailored by the respective materials chosen. With the Huano Elf’s POK top creating a distinct clacky sound, and the WS Dash's polycarbonate providing a crisp response, the switches cater to different user preferences. However, the shared nylon bottom housing allows both switches to still maintain an inherent familiarity in sound depth and tactility, demonstrating how the interplay of materials in a switch can lead to nuanced auditory profiles while ensuring core attributes remain intact for a cohesive typing experience.
Weight
The Huano Elf linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Elf has an actuation force of 42 grams, whereas the WS Dash requires a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making the WS Dash the preferred choice for users seeking a lighter, more effortless typing experience. However, the Elf's bottom out force remains unknown, which leaves a gap in the comparison. On the other hand, the WS Dash has a defined bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating that it requires a medium-light force to fully actuate. For those who favor a more substantial typing feel, the heavier actuation force of the Elf could be appealing. In summary, the WS Dash is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Elf might cater to users who enjoy a stronger push, despite lacking information on its bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, notable differences emerge. The Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer than the WS Dash's travel distance of 3.5 mm. This slight variation means that while both switches offer relatively comparable response times suited for gaming, the Elf provides a bit more depth in its keystroke, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the WS Dash, with its shorter travel distance, might cater better to those who favor a quicker actuation and responsiveness, characteristic of modern gaming preferences. Overall, while both switches are designed for different user experiences, the Elf's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some, while the WS Dash offers a slightly more rapid actuation.
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 Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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
In terms of sound, the Huano Elf linear switch is known for its deep sound signature, which contributes to a rich auditory experience during typing. The POK top housing enhances the acoustics, resulting in a more resonant and satisfying output. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch offers a bright and clacky sound profile, providing a pronounced and lively auditory feedback with each keystroke. While both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, the Elf leans more towards a deeper, fuller sound, whereas the WS Dash is characterized by its higher-pitched, sharper tones. It's important to remember that the overall sound will also be influenced by the keyboard construction, keycap materials, and other factors.
Regarding feel, the Elf switch is recognized for its medium-light actuation force, offering a comfortable yet responsive experience that many typists find appealing. This makes it ideal for both gaming and typing scenarios, where a pleasant feedback loop is desired. In contrast, the WS Dash switch boasts a silky smooth keystroke, promoting an effortless typing experience. Users may find the smoothness highly appealing, though the specific resistance or actuation force is not detailed. While both switches provide enjoyable tactile experiences, the Elf leans towards a more traditional linear feel, whereas the WS Dash prioritizes a sleek and frictionless engagement.
In conclusion, the Huano Elf linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch offer unique auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. The Elf delivers a deep sound and medium-light feel that enhances traditional typing experiences, while the WS Dash offers a bright sound and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, contributing to a refined touch. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both have their standout characteristics that can provide satisfying performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound experience. If you enjoy a deep, acoustic profile combined with a smooth, medium-light key travel that offers a satisfying typing experience, the Elf switch is a great choice. Its unique POK top housing enhances its acoustics, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more resonant sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation with a medium-light bottom-out force, and you are looking for a switch that provides a bright and clacky sound signature along with a silky smooth keystroke, the WS Dash would suit you better. The Hall Effect technology in the WS Dash adds a layer of refinement and responsiveness that is appealing for both gaming and typists who value a tactile feedback experience. Ultimately, consider how you prioritize sound characteristics and keystroke feel to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
