Huano Elf vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile each offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences and environments. The Huano Elf, a linear switch, is often praised for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a rich, deep sound signature paired with a medium-light feel, making for a gratifying typing experience that many typists and gamers appreciate for its smoothness. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch from Wuque Studio represents a superb choice for quiet office settings, blending medium tactility with exceptional noise reduction. Its innovative design eliminates the need for silicone dampeners, resulting in a silent yet responsive typing experience that doesn’t compromise on the tactile feedback that many users love. While the Elf's satisfying linearity makes it a surefire choice for enthusiasts seeking a direct and uninterrupted keystroke, the WS Silent Tactile caters to those needing a more subdued typing experience without sacrificing the sensory feedback of a tactile switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, the most notable distinction is the top housing material. The Elf utilizes a POK material, known for its exceptionally smooth texture and high durability, with a coefficient of friction that allows for easy actuation. Its wear resistance is significantly stronger than POM, and its shock resistance also exceeds that of other common materials like Nylon. This combination results in typing experiences that are not only smooth but also clacky and resilient, which can contribute to an engaging tactile feedback upon keystrokes. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top housing, a classic choice that offers a softer touch and a distinctive sound profile. The nylon's lower hardness contributes to a deeper and fuller acoustic environment, cushioning the sound of each keypress for a more subdued and rounded auditory output.
Despite these differences in top housing, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, which serves to create a consistent sound experience. Since both the Huano Elf and the WS Silent Tactile utilize nylon at the bottom, they will elicit similar acoustic qualities when typing—the muted sound profile characteristic of softer plastic materials will dominate the bottom-out sound. This sonic absorption creates a deeper thock when a keystroke is fully pressed down, adding to a richer typing experience for both switches. Thus, while their top housing materials contribute distinct characteristics—smoothness versus depth—the nylon bottom undeniably harmonizes their auditory profiles during use.
In essence, the combination of distinct top housing materials with the same nylon bottom results in a unique interplay of tactile and auditory sensations. The Huano Elf benefits from the POK's strength and smoother feel, while the WS Silent Tactile's nylon top promotes a gentler touch and acoustic personality. Consequently, users may find that both switches achieve a pleasing typing experience tailored to their preferences—whether they prioritize durability and tactile feedback or a softer sound profile. Regardless of the variations, each switch type embraces the beneficial attributes of nylon at the bottom, ensuring that they share a common foundation of auditory satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Elf switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, providing a relatively light typing experience that may be ideal for extended use, such as long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. While the Elf's bottom out force is unknown, we can infer that if it were significantly lower than 63.5 grams, it would enhance the Elf's appeal for users who prefer lighter switches. In this scenario, the Huano Elf offers a lighter actuation force, making it a more suitable option for those who favor ease of typing, while the WS Silent Tactile, with its heavier bottom out force, might appeal to individuals who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel. Overall, users seeking a lighter touch should consider the Elf, whereas those who prefer added resistance may find the WS Silent Tactile more satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, the Elf measures 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Elf offers a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback with each key press. If you prefer a sensation of depth and a fuller immersion in typing, the Huano Elf may be the better choice. Conversely, the shorter travel of the WS Silent Tactile means it could cater to users seeking quicker responsiveness, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers needing swift actions. Both switches, while relatively close in travel distance, reflect a different approach to user experience, balancing between depth and immediacy.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, the Huano Elf linear switch produces a deep sound signature that resonates nicely, creating a fulfilling auditory experience during typing sessions. The construction utilizing a POK top housing enhances acoustics, generating a tone that feels rich without being overwhelming. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is engineered for a more subdued sound profile, emphasizing muted operation. It excels in environments where noise can be disruptive, such as offices, producing a quiet, crisp typing sound that minimizes the traditional loud clacks associated with mechanical keyboards. While the Elf offers a more resonant typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile provides a calm atmosphere without sacrificing responsiveness.
When evaluating the feel of these switches, the Huano Elf linear switch is characterized as medium-light, delivering a satisfying typing experience that invites users to engage comfortably. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers a unique blend of tactility and smoothness. It features a medium tactile feedback that is notably accented, ensuring that each keystroke feels responding without becoming overly harsh. The invigorating nature of the WS Silent Tactile gives it a reactive sensation, making it feel dynamic, while still categorizing it as mild overall. This combination allows the WS Silent Tactile to cater to users who enjoy their feedback without overwhelming sensations.
In conclusion, both the Huano Elf linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch present distinct auditory and tactile qualities that can cater to different preferences. The Elf offers a deeper, richer sound with a medium-light feel that's enjoyable for prolonged typing, while the WS Silent Tactile is designed for quieter settings, providing a muted, crisp sound combined with pronounced yet not overpowering tactile feedback. Depending on your intended use—be it for dynamic typing sessions or a more professional atmosphere—both switches can yield satisfying results, aligning with ergonomic and aesthetic preferences in different environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, your preferences and usage scenarios will greatly influence your choice. If you enjoy a medium-light typing experience with a satisfying yet deep sound profile, the Huano Elf may be ideal, especially for personal use or gaming setups where acoustic feedback brings joy to your typing. Conversely, if you frequently find yourself in office environments or shared spaces where noise reduction is paramount, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a superior solution with its medium tactility and innovative silent operation. This makes it a perfect contender for those who desire a responsive typing feel while maintaining a quieter atmosphere. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize sound and feel in a more pronounced way with the Elf, or value a balanced, muted experience with the WS Silent Tactile that caters to a noiseless environment.
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