Huano Grape Orange vs. Outemu Red

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Red present two intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Huano Grape Orange is renowned for its exceptionally light actuation force of only 40g, allowing for a smooth and effortless typing experience that makes it an excellent choice for those who spend long hours typing. In contrast, while the Outemu Red doesn't boast any distinct characteristics, it provides a reliable performance with its linear mechanics. Both switches cater to different user preferences: the Grape Orange is favored for its light touch and comfort during prolonged use, while the Outemu Red might appeal to users looking for a standard linear feel without additional frills. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Outemu Red Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Red switches are remarkably similar, both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. This characteristic arises from the nature of polycarbonate as a relatively stiffer plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of sound produced when the switches are in use. Aesthetic considerations also play a role, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making it an ideal choice for visually appealing setups. Consequently, users can expect a similar high-clarity sound experience when using either the Grape Orange or the Outemu Red.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches use nylon, a material known for its capacity to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon leads to sound absorption, rounding out the auditory signature of the switches. As a result, while both switches share a crisp response from their polycarbonate tops, the nylon bottoms produce a more muted bottom-out sound, offering a rich texture to the typing experience. Given that the nylon's properties dampen higher frequencies, this combination of materials results in a distinct auditory experience, balancing sharpness from the top and depth from the bottom.

Ultimately, the construction of both switches ensures that users can achieve a cohesive sound profile, blending the attributes of their respective housing materials. While the top housings introduce clarity and brightness, the bottom housings serve to enrich the overall acoustic experience with warmth and depth. Therefore, regardless of the specific switch chosen, those looking to enhance their typing experience or customize lighting effects will find satisfaction in both the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Red due to their similar housing compositions. The resultant hybrid sound profile effectively capitalizes on the strengths of both materials, ensuring a well-rounded performance tailored to a variety of user preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Outemu Red has a heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Grape Orange the lighter option, appealing to users who prefer less resistance for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red, with its higher forces, offers a more substantial typing experience that might be favored by users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, the Grape Orange is better suited for those seeking comfort over longer durations, whereas the Outemu Red is ideal for those who appreciate a firmer keypress.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, the Grape Orange features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Outemu Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance indicates that the Grape Orange switch offers a quicker response time, appealing to gamers who prefer the shorter actuation for fast-paced gameplay. In contrast, the Outemu Red switch, with its traditional 4 mm travel distance, may provide a more substantial depth that some users find preferable for a robust typing experience. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Grape Orange with its 3.6 mm distance would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a deeper actuation might gravitate towards the Outemu Red's longer travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Huano Grape Orange switch is characterized by a smooth and relatively quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise control is important. While specific sound profiles for the Outemu Red switch are not provided, it is generally noted that linear switches tend to produce a muted sound compared to tactile or clicky switches. Therefore, users can expect a similar low noise level from the Outemu Red, allowing for a peaceful typing experience, especially when combined with the right keyboard and keycap setup.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience with a very low actuation force of just 40g. This makes it highly comfortable for extended typing sessions, allowing for quicker keystrokes without requiring significant force. Although the feel of the Outemu Red switch is not specified, it is commonly understood among linear switches to provide a smooth keystroke. Therefore, while they may differ slightly in their actuation force, users of both switches can expect a fluid and seamless typing experience, making them suitable for both gaming and typing tasks.

Overall, while the Huano Grape Orange linear switch stands out with its noticeably light actuation force and smooth operation, the Outemu Red switch is likely to offer a similar experience in terms of sound and feel due to their shared linear nature. For someone seeking a low-noise linear switch that allows for rapid key presses, either option could serve well, particularly if a lighter touch is preferred for extended use.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience, particularly for extended sessions, the Grape Orange is your ideal choice, thanks to its low 40g actuation force and a bottom-out force of only 50 grams. This makes it particularly suitable for both typing and gaming where quick keystrokes are essential, allowing you to type with minimal effort and fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance when pressing the keys, perhaps for a more controlled typing experience, the Outemu Red, with its medium 62g bottom-out force, might work better for you. While it may not be as widely praised as the Grape Orange, the Red offers a balanced feel that some users may find satisfying for both work and casual gaming. Ultimately, your choice should align with your comfort and specific use cases, ensuring that your keyboard feels just right for you.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more