Huano Elf vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Huano Elf and the TTC Gold Silver are prominent contenders, each offering unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Huano Elf switches are celebrated for their POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and produces a deep sound signature, all while providing a medium-light feel that makes for a satisfying typing experience. Enthusiasts often seek these switches for their balanced response and rich auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver excels in rapid responsiveness, featuring a shortened travel distance that ensures a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. The smooth journey to that tactile closure, combined with a resonant sound profile, makes the Gold Silver a go-to for users who prioritize speed and fluidity. Ultimately, the choice between the Elf and Gold Silver switches hinges on personal preferences for acoustics, tactile feedback, and typing speed. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the TTC Gold Silver switches, it becomes evident that the two utilize different materials for their top housings, while the bottom housings are made from the same classic nylon. The Elf's top housing is crafted from polyketone (POK), a highly durable material known for its low coefficient of friction of 0.04, which aids in creating smooth, clacky, and resilient switch operations. In contrast, the Gold Silver employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is characterized by its rigidity and translucency, resulting in a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. While both materials serve functional purposes within their respective switches, the choice of top housing contributes significantly to the tonal characteristics and overall typing experience.
The bottom housing for both switches is made of nylon, a well-regarded classic material in the keyboard world. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb sound better than harder plastics, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile for both the Huano Elf and the TTC Gold Silver. Despite their differences in top housing materials, the commonality of nylon in their construction leads to similar acoustic outcomes regarding the bottom-out sound, making users experience a plush and cushioned feel as they type. This shared bottom material underscores the effectiveness of nylon in enhancing the typing experience through sound dampening and tactile feedback.
Ultimately, while the Huano Elf and the TTC Gold Silver switches differ in their top housing materials—with POK being focused on durability and smoothness and polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and resonance—the similarities in their nylon bottom housings produce comparable outcomes when it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The interplay between the materials allows each switch to present unique qualities, where the top housing influences the sound profile during the release of a key, while the bottom housing shapes the bottom-out experience. This thoughtful combination of different materials ensures that users can enjoy distinct auditory and tactile features even within the same overall switch family.
Weight
When comparing the actuation forces of the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, the Elf requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Gold Silver. This means that users might find the Elf easier to type or game on over extended periods, as the lighter force can reduce fatigue. However, without available information on the bottom out forces for both switches, we cannot make a direct comparison in that aspect. Despite this lack of data, the heavier actuation force of the Gold Silver may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In summary, if you're looking for a lighter switch to enhance comfort during long sessions, the Huano Elf would be the preferable choice, while the TTC Gold Silver may better suit those who appreciate a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, the Elf comes in at 3.6 mm, while the Gold Silver measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Huano Elf the longer of the two switches by a margin of 0.1 mm. For those who favor faster response times, the Gold Silver's shorter travel distance may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Elf's longer travel distance can provide a more substantial tactile experience, which some users might prefer for a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key actuation.
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 TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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
When considering the sound profile of the Huano Elf and TTC Gold Silver linear switches, the Elf is noted for a deep sound signature that typically results in a satisfying auditory experience. While the specific sound qualities of the Elf are not detailed, it suggests a resonance that enhances its overall acoustics. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver offers a thocky sound, characterized by a rich, low-pitched thud that resonatively punctuates each keystroke. This switch is designed for a deep, bass-heavy tone, creating a compelling auditory experience that combines decisiveness and neutrality, making it suitable for varied environments. If both switches are used with specific boards and keycaps, the sound generated can be further optimized, ensuring a similar auditory satisfaction.
In terms of tactile feedback and feel, the Elf is recognized for providing a medium-light typing experience that promotes comfortable and satisfying keystrokes, although specifics about its smoothness and finish are unclear. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is designed with a polished and silky finish, contributing to an exceptionally smooth typing experience, thereby significantly minimizing friction. This smoothness is complemented by a mild and subtle resistance, meaning that the key presses are light and approachable. For those who prioritize a smooth travel without harsh resistance, the Gold Silver might offer a more refined option compared to the Elf, but the Elf’s medium-light feel still maintains an enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Huano Elf linear switch is characterized by its deep sound and medium-light feel, the TTC Gold Silver stands out with its thocky, resonant sound and exceptionally smooth, polished typing experience. The Elf leans towards a satisfying auditory experience, while the Gold Silver emphasizes responsiveness and fluidity. Ultimately, both switches can provide pleasurable typing experiences with distinct characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound resonance or smoothness in feel. Depending on individual typing style and sound preference, one could find satisfaction with either switch, albeit with slightly different sensory attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for a switch that emphasizes acoustics with a rich, deep sound profile and a medium-light feel, the Huano Elf might be your best bet. Its unique POK top housing ensures a satisfying typing experience, particularly if you enjoy a more resonant sound that complements your keystrokes. On the other hand, if speed and precision are what you seek, the TTC Gold Silver is an excellent choice. It offers a polished, silky tactile experience with a snappy bottom-out that provides clear feedback with each press. This switch is perfect for fast-paced typing where a smooth and responsive feel is paramount. In shared spaces or a quieter environment, the Elf's subtle sound can be advantageous, while the Gold Silver’s thocky, low-pitched acoustics may resonate well if you enjoy more pronounced auditory feedback. Consider your usage scenarios, whether for gaming, typing, or a mixture of both, to make the switch that aligns best with your preferences.
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