Huano Grape Orange vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Cherry MX Speed Silver stand out as two strong contenders in the linear switch category, each catering to different user preferences and needs. The Grape Orange switch is celebrated for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, providing an exceptionally effortless typing experience that is ideal for those who spend long hours typing, facilitating comfort and reducing finger fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is engineered for gamers seeking rapid responsiveness; with its low spring resistance and full height, it offers instant actuation, allowing for quick reactions that can make all the difference in competitive scenarios. While the Grape Orange leans towards comfort during prolonged use, the Speed Silver emphasizes speed and performance for fast-paced gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Cherry MX Speed Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches, a clear distinction emerges between their top housings. The Grape Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for enhancing the sound profile of the switch. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. Its translucency allows for better integration with RGB lighting, making it an aesthetically pleasing option for users seeking vibrant backlighting. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver employs a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Though both switches have distinct outer housings, their sound characteristics are shaped significantly by the specific material used, presenting two different experiences for users.

Both the Grape Orange and the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which highlights a shared feature between the two switches. Nylon is a classic and popular choice for switch bottom housings due to its sound-absorbing qualities. The use of nylon in both switches contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, making the typing experience more pleasant for users who prefer a softer and less resonant feedback during key presses. Since the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, both the Grape Orange and the MX Speed Silver will provide a satisfying tactile foundation, despite their differing top housings. In essence, while the sound profile may vary based on the top housing, the bottom nylon material acts as a common ground in terms of auditory experience.

The combination of different housing materials in the Huano Grape Orange and Cherry MX Speed Silver highlights how each switch's design elements can influence the overall performance. Users who prioritize a sharper sound with brightness may lean towards the Grape Orange for its polycarbonate top, while those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience may find the MX Speed Silver more to their liking due to its nylon top. However, the consistent use of nylon in both switches' bottom housings ensures that they both deliver a rounded and rich key press feel. Thus, while they may achieve similar results in terms of the deeper sound experience due to the nylon bottoms, the key differentiation comes from the unique auditory signatures introduced by their respective top housing materials.

Weight

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch exhibit differences in their actuation forces that may appeal to distinct typing preferences. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams compared to the MX Speed Silver, which requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Grape Orange a better choice for those who prefer a less strenuous experience during long typing sessions or extended gaming, while the MX Speed Silver may be more suited for users who enjoy a firmer push feel. In terms of bottom out force, the Grape Orange exhibits a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is known, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver's bottom out force remains unknown. As a result, the Grape Orange is considered the lighter option overall, while the MX Speed Silver leans towards the heavier end, albeit the precise bottom out measurement cannot be discussed. Users seeking a lighter, more effortless typing experience would likely find the Grape Orange preferable.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, we see notable differences. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Speed Silver features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the longer option, appealing to users who prefer that extra depth for a more substantial keystroke feel. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver, with its reduced travel distance, may provide a faster response time, which is often favored by gamers seeking increased responsiveness. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on personal preference: if you prioritize a deeper keystroke, the Huano Grape Orange would be more suitable; however, for a quicker action, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is the better choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the Huano Grape Orange and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches, a pronounced distinction emerges. The Grape Orange lacks a specific sound profile, making it less defined in this aspect, whereas the MX Speed Silver is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound. The rich and satisfying low-pitched tone of the Silver provides a more bass-heavy sound experience, akin to a soft knock or thud, enhancing the auditory feedback when typing or gaming. However, it's important to note that the overall sound produced by either switch can be influenced significantly by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, further complicating direct comparisons.

In terms of feel, the Huano Grape Orange excels with its ultra-light actuation force of 40g, offering an effortlessly smooth typing experience that is particularly advantageous for extended use. Unfortunately, the Grape Orange lacks a defined description of its unique tactile feedback, leaving some aspects of its feel open to personal discernment. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is characterized as textured or somewhat scratchy, which introduces a noticeable friction during key presses. This tactile sensation might appeal to users who prefer a more engaged typing experience, while others may find the Grape Orange’s smoothness to be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions.

In summary, the Huano Grape Orange and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches cater to different preferences within the linear switch category. The Grape Orange is perfect for those seeking a lightweight and smooth experience, making long typing sessions easier, while the MX Speed Silver is tailored for gamers looking for rapid response times and a rich auditory experience. Whether you lean towards the silent ease of the Grape Orange or the thocky feedback of the Speed Silver, both switches offer unique advantages tailored to user preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize an exceptionally light and smooth typing experience, particularly for extended typing sessions, the Grape Orange switch is an excellent option thanks to its low actuation force of only 40 grams. It allows for a more effortless keypress, reducing fatigue during long periods of use. However, if you are primarily focused on gaming and require the fastest possible response time, the MX Speed Silver is the superior choice. Engineered for rapid actuation, it offers an instant trigger that can give you the edge in competitive settings, and its thocky, low-pitched sound adds a satisfying auditory feedback without being disruptive. Therefore, consider your primary use case: for a relaxing typing experience, opt for the Grape Orange; for high-stakes gaming where speed is critical, go for the MX Speed Silver. Ultimately, your individual preferences regarding sound and feel will also play a significant role in making the right switch choice for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Speed Silver Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more