Huano Grape Orange vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Huano Grape Orange and the Jwick Taro. The Grape Orange is a linear switch renowned for its exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, featuring an ultra-low actuation force of just 40g. This makes it an ideal choice for users who engage in prolonged typing sessions and prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Jwick Taro is a tactile switch that offers a cozy typing experience, with a medium-level tactility that provides satisfying feedback. Users will appreciate its acute and crisp clacks, which add a delightful auditory element to every keystroke. While the Grape Orange caters to those seeking a silky-smooth feel, the Taro appeals to users who enjoy a blend of sensation and sound in their typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Grape Orange and the Jwick Taro share common ground in their housing materials, both featuring polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing is instrumental in creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as the material's rigidity enhances resonance and clarity. This characteristic is beneficial for those who appreciate a more articulate audio feedback when typing. Both switches capitalize on polycarbonate's translucent quality, making them particularly suited for RGB lighting applications. This similarity in materials suggests that users can expect a uniform auditory experience when it comes to the sound produced during the actuation and release of the key.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of both the Grape Orange and Taro serves a different acoustical purpose, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than stiffer materials like polycarbonate, thus resulting in a duller and rounder auditory output. This duality in housing materials means that while the two switches share the same top housing and therefore a similar sound profile on key release, their bottom housings will influence the overall typing sound when the key is pressed down. Consequently, users can expect a dichotomy in auditory sensations, as the top and bottom materials harmonize to create a balanced audio profile.
Ultimately, while the Grape Orange and Jwick Taro exhibit similarities in their use of polycarbonate and nylon, the interaction between these materials will produce nuanced differences in acoustic feedback. The polycarbonate on top will amplify brightness and clarity, complementing the muted robustness provided by the nylon base. This collaboration between differing material properties allows both switches to offer a satisfying typing experience enriched by a range of auditory textures. Thus, whether one prefers the Grape Orange or the Jwick Taro, they can anticipate an engaging blend of sound characteristics arising from the distinct housing combinations.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, a notable distinction lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams, requiring minimal effort for key presses, while its bottom out force is 50 grams, indicating a gentle landing when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the Jwick Taro has an unknown actuation force but boasts a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, suggesting a more substantial action when bottoming out. This difference indicates that while the Grape Orange appeals to users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Taro caters to those who enjoy a firmer and more resistive typing experience. Thus, if you're looking for a lighter option, the Huano Grape Orange would be the preferable choice, while the Jwick Taro is better suited for users seeking a heavier feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, the Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Taro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that, in terms of tactile feedback and the overall experience when pressing the keys, the Grape Orange will provide a more responsive, albeit shallower, feel compared to the deeper depth of the Taro switch. For those who enjoy quicker response times typically valued by gamers, the Grape Orange switch could be the preferred choice. On the other hand, users who favor a more substantial keystroke that provides a richer feel might gravitate towards the Taro switch. In this case, the Grape Orange is the shorter option, while the Taro is the longer one.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Huano Grape Orange linear switch has an understated sound profile, making it relatively quiet during use, which allows for an unobtrusive typing experience. This subdued auditory feedback can be beneficial in environments where noise is a consideration, such as shared workspaces or quiet homes. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch produces a more pronounced auditory signature with its acute and crisp clacks. This clear sound adds an engaging layer to the typing experience, suitable for users who appreciate audible feedback with each keystroke. However, it's important to keep in mind that the overall sound can also depend on factors such as the keyboard's build, the material of the keycaps, and the surface beneath the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switches are light and effortless to press, thanks to their ultra-low 40g actuation force. This characteristic allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue, appealing to those who prefer a smoother keystroke. Conversely, the Taro's feel encompasses both a buttery smoothness and a stepped tactile response. This combination provides a satisfying typing experience with a noticeable bump at the actuation point, resulting in a more engaging interaction with each keystroke while still retaining a sense of fluidity. The tactile feedback of the Taro ensures that users can type with precision, benefiting both casual typists and gamers alike.
In summary, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and Jwick Taro tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Grape Orange is ideal for users seeking a quiet, effortless feel during long typing sessions, while the Taro appeals to those who enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback. Both switches have their unique strengths, and the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes sound, feel, or a combination of both in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value a lightweight, quick actuation for extended typing sessions, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice, offering a smooth and effortless experience that's ideal for long hours at the keyboard. Its lower actuation force makes it perfect for those who prefer a more fluid typing style without the need for much pressure. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile feedback with a snappy response, the Taro switch is likely more suited to your needs. Its medium-heavy bottom out force gives a satisfying tactile bump during use, making it a great option for both typing and gaming. The crisp sound profile of the Taro also adds an engaging auditory experience that can enhance the overall feel of your keyboard. So, whether you lean towards the lightness of the Grape Orange or the tactile richness of the Taro, both switches cater to distinct typing experiences, enabling you to choose based on your specific preferences for comfort and feedback.
Mentioned in this article
