Huano Elf vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often hinges on the typing experience you seek, and two standout options are the Huano Elf and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches. The Huano Elf, known for its POK top housing, emphasizes enhanced acoustics and produces a deep sound signature, paired with a medium-light feel that many find satisfying for long typing sessions. This linear switch is ideal for those who prefer a smooth keypress without tactile feedback, allowing for rapid typing and gaming without the distraction of a noticeable bump. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile takes a different approach, offering a creamy smoothness coupled with a pronounced tactile bump, creating an engaging and textured typing experience that tactile enthusiasts adore. This switch is perfect for users who relish the feedback of each keystroke, providing confidence and precision in every press. Ultimately, the choice between a linear experience with the Huano Elf and the tactile delight of the Durock Ice King depends on personal preference. 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
42g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Huano Elf and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches utilize distinct top housing materials that fundamentally influence their performance characteristics. The Huano Elf features a top housing made from POK (polyketone), which is renowned for its smoothness with a low coefficient of friction (0.04) and exceptional durability. With a wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM and a shock resistance 2.3 times that of Nylon, the POK material enhances the overall typing experience by contributing to a crisp and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile employs a traditional Nylon top housing. While Nylon is a staple in the keyboard industry due to its capacity to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic effect, it does not match the smoothness and durability offered by POK. This difference in materials highlights the Elf's advantage in creating a more tactile and responsive feel compared to the softer, sound-absorbing nature of the Ice King Tactile.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Huano Elf and the Durock Ice King Tactile utilize Nylon, making their respective bottom characteristics more similar than different. The use of Nylon for both switches results in a duller and rounder sound profile during typing, as Nylon is recognized for its sound-absorbing qualities. This commonality ensures that both switches produce a similar auditory experience for users when bottoming out on keystrokes. However, since the bottom housing generally dictates the feel when pressing down, the Huano Elf still offers a slightly distinct performance because the top housing utilizes POK, which contributes more to the responsiveness and tactile feedback of the switch. Therefore, even with both switches sharing Nylon as their bottom housing material, the overall feel and sound experience can differ, driven primarily by the interaction between the types of top housing materials used.
In conclusion, while the Durock Ice King Tactile and Huano Elf switches showcase a blend of different and similar materials in their respective designs, the combination of POK and Nylon in the Elf allows it to achieve a unique balance of durability and tactile feedback that stands apart from the Ice King Tactile. The differences in the top housings highlight how material selection can significantly affect performance attributes such as smoothness and sound profile, emphasizing the role of the bottom housing in ensuring a consistent and full-bodied auditory experience across both switches. Consequently, users can expect a robust, clacky response from the Elf due to its POK composition, while the Ice King Tactile will provide a softer, deeper sound profile thanks to its reliance solely on Nylon. This nuanced understanding assists in choosing switches that align closely with individual user preferences for typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, there is a notable disparity in their actuation forces. The Elf has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile switch requires a heavier actuation force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial feel that many typists appreciate for its tactile feedback and resistance. Additionally, the Ice King bottom out force is a substantial 68 grams, reinforcing its medium-heavy classification, while the bottom out force for the Elf is unavailable. As a result, the Huano Elf is positioned as the lighter option, perfect for those seeking comfort and ease, while the Durock Ice King caters to users who favor a firmer typing experience to enhance their tactile sensations.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, we find that the Elf has a distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ice King Tactile measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Elf the longer of the two options, albeit by a mere 0.1 mm. For gamers seeking quicker actuation and a more responsive experience, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may be advantageous. However, for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming, the Elf's longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying experience. In conclusion, while both switches aim to enhance performance, the choice between them largely depends on individual preferences for travel distance and response.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 Elf linear switch produces a deep sound signature that enhances the auditory experience of typing, thanks in part to its POK top housing designed for improved acoustics. While it delivers a rich and resonant tone, the overall volume may be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a more subdued sound profile, characterized by its dampened auditory feedback. This means that while it does produce sound when pressed, it does so in a less pronounced manner, providing a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. The difference in sound characteristics between these two switches reflects their intended user experience, catering to different preferences for auditory feedback during typing.
When it comes to feel, the Elf switch is recognized for its medium-light resistance, allowing for a comfortable typing experience that strikes a balance between control and ease of use. It offers a smooth keystroke ideal for users who prefer linear switches and the predictability that comes with them. The Ice King Tactile switch, on the other hand, is a remarkable blend of tactile feedback and flawless smoothness. The tactile bump offers a distinct sensation that enhances the typing experience, while its silky and frictionless characteristics ensure that each key press is effortlessly executed. The stepped feel adds another layer of engagement, allowing typists to appreciate the nuances of key travel with a refined touch.
In conclusion, both switches present unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Huano Elf's deep sound and medium-light feel create an immersive linear experience, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch elevates tactile feedback to a refined art form, thanks to its subdued sound, silky smoothness, and pronounced tactile series. Depending on whether one prioritizes sound, feel, or a combination of these factors, users can find satisfaction with either switch, though their experiences will ultimately differ in nuance and character.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch largely depends on your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you prioritize a smooth, light typing experience with a deep sound signature, the Huano Elf would be an excellent fit, allowing for effortless key presses that reduce fatigue during long typing sessions. The Elf's design offers a unique combination of acoustics and feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a linear switch without tactile feedback. Conversely, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience that combines a pronounced bump with silky smoothness, the Durock Ice King Tactile is the way to go. Its medium-heavy actuation force provides a satisfying resistance that many find rewarding, particularly for gaming or typing where feedback is essential. Furthermore, with its subdued sound profile and polished finish, the Ice King ensures that each keystroke feels both refined and responsive. Ultimately, consider what you want from your keyboard and how you use it; whether you lean towards the fluidity of the Elf or the tactile elegance of the Ice King will guide your decision for your perfect typing companion.
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