Huano Grape Orange vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Blue present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange switches are celebrated for their linear characteristics, offering an incredibly light and smooth typing experience with an actuation force of just 40g. This makes them ideal for users who enjoy effortless key presses during long typing sessions without any tactile feedback interruptions. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switches are known for their clicky feel, providing both auditory and tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying and encouraging, especially when gaming or writing. Their pronounced click can enhance the feel of each keystroke, making it easier for users to know when their key presses register. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a lightweight, linear feel or the satisfying click and tactile feedback of a clicky switch. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Blue switches share notable similarities in their construction, most prominently their top housings made from polycarbonate. This common choice in material contributes to a distinct sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched auditory experience. Both switches exhibit the advantages of polycarbonate’s rigidity; it not only enhances the acoustic properties but also allows for the effective diffusion of RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for aesthetics, making both the Grape Orange and the Outemu Blue well-suited for keyboards that utilize lighting effects.
However, when it comes to their bottom housings, the Grape Orange and Outemu Blue diverge in material choice, both using nylon. Nylon's softer properties create a fuller, deeper sound profile, providing a contrasting auditory experience compared to the crispness imparted by the polycarbonate tops. The nylon bottom absorbs more sound, contributing to a duller and rounder tone, which changes the feel and experience when bottoming out the switch. Therefore, while both types of switches possess the advantage of polycarbonate’s sound clarity in their tops, the nylon bottoms shift the sound dynamics, thereby influencing overall typing experience through the signature sound profile that comes from a softer material.
The combination of these materials leads to a unique nuanced interaction in both models. The polycarbonate tops ensure a clear sound profile during the key release, while the nylon bottoms provide rich and earthy tones during the key press, reinforcing the overall auditory feedback while typing. Although both switches employ the same materials for their top and bottom housings, the character of the Grape Orange and Outemu Blue switches remains distinctly different due to their nuanced design. Typists will find that while the top sounds may converge in clarity, the bottom response varies, resulting in switches that cater to different preferences in auditory feedback but can still yield similar satisfaction in terms of lighting compatibility and clarity.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces. The Grape Orange has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who appreciate a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, although its bottom out force is unspecified. Given this information, the Grape Orange is the lighter option and might be more comfortable for prolonged use, while the Outemu Blue offers a firmer feel. Users seeking a lighter switch should lean towards the Huano Grape Orange, while those who value a stronger push might prefer the Outemu Blue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it becomes evident that the Grape Orange offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Blue switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference plays a significant role in the overall typing experience; the shorter travel distance of the Grape Orange can provide gamers with quicker response times and a more responsive feel, which can be advantageous in fast-paced gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Blue switch may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced key press and a deeper tactile response, making it feel less abrupt during use. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference—whether one favors faster actions with the Grape Orange or a more traditional, hearty depth with the Blue switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
The Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 sound profile of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch is relatively subdued, producing a soft thock when a key is pressed. This makes it ideal for environments where a quieter typing experience is desired, allowing users to focus without distraction. Conversely, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is characterized by its pronounced click sound, which offers both auditory feedback and a satisfying sound to many typists. The click is not only loud but also distinct, appealing to those who prefer an audible indication that their keystroke has registered. This difference means that while Grape Orange provides a more muted experience, the Blue switch caters to users who enjoy the notification of a click with each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch stands out due to its ultra-light 40g actuation force, allowing for a smooth and effortless typing experience. This light touch is excellent for long typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue over time. In contrast, the Outemu Blue offers a tactile bump at the actuation point, along with a heavier feel, which might require more deliberate effort but provides an engaging physical response. This tactile feedback is satisfying for typists who enjoy a more traditional mechanical typing experience where each keystroke feels pronounced and impactful.
In summary, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch is ideal for those who value a quiet and smooth typing experience, especially during extended use, while the Outemu Blue switch caters to users who appreciate tactile feedback and an audible click with each press. The differences in sound and feel between these switches cater to varied user preferences, allowing individuals to choose based on their typing style and environment. Ultimately, the ideal switch will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter, quieter experience or a more tactile and audible feedback with your typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Huano Grape Orange linear switches and Outemu Blue clicky switches primarily hinges on your typing preferences and application scenarios. If you prioritize a lightweight and smooth typing experience, especially during long typing sessions, the Grape Orange switches with their ultra-low actuation force of 40g would be an excellent choice. They facilitate effortless keystrokes, making them suitable for tasks that demand continuous typing without fatigue. Conversely, if you enjoy tactile feedback and audible confirmation with every keystroke, the Outemu Blue switches are designed for you. Their distinctive clicky sound and feel provide a satisfying experience that many typists find motivating, making them ideal for coding, gaming, or even just casual typing sessions where auditory feedback enhances your experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value a linear, smooth action or a tactile, clicky feel, as both switches serve distinct purposes in enhancing your keyboard experience.
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