Huano Elf vs. TTC Iron

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Elf and TTC Iron are two excellent linear options that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Huano Elf, renowned for its POK top housing, is designed to enhance acoustics, offering a deep sound signature complemented by a medium-light feel that creates a satisfying typing experience. It’s ideal for users who appreciate a balanced sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Iron stands out with its pronounced clacky sound that resonates pleasingly with every press. Known for being remarkably light and smooth, it allows for swift, fatigue-free typing, making it a fantastic choice for both enthusiasts and daily users seeking a blend of precision and auditory enjoyment. Each switch has its unique appeal, with the Elf focusing on acoustics and typing feel, while the Iron prioritizes responsiveness and sound. 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 Elf Linear

TTC Iron Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the switches of the Huano Elf and the TTC Iron showcase distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall performance and sound profile. The Elf features a top housing made from polyketone (POK), renowned for its smoothness and exceptional durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK slightly surpasses that of LY at 0.03, allowing for fluid keystrokes. In contrast, the Iron incorporates a POM material for its top housing, which is familiar in the switch community for creating a pleasant sound profile, known to be on the deeper side and relatively muted. While both types of top housing are designed to enhance the switch experience, the Elf's POK maintains a competitive edge in wear and shock resistance, making it a more robust option compared to the Iron's POM, which offers a softer touch but less durability.

When examining the bottom housing of these two switches, the differences in material composition further highlight their unique qualities. The Huano Elf utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, a classic choice that produces a sound profile characterized by a deeper resonance that is more muted and rounded, enhancing the user experience by absorbing sound effectively. In contrast, the TTC Iron also employs POM in its bottom housing, contributing to its unique yet muted sound profile. Despite the different materials used in each switch, both contribute to a rounded, deeper sound, albeit through different mechanisms. The Elf’s nylon absorbs vibrations, while the Iron’s POM creates a pleasing sound through its inherently mellow properties.

Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in both the Huano Elf and the TTC Iron influences not just sound but also tactile feedback when using the switches. The Elf's top housing, made from POK, stands out for its durability and smooth performance, while the nylon bottom provides a fuller, deeper sound experience. Conversely, the TTC Iron’s homogeneous use of POM, both for the top and bottom housings, allows for a consistent sound profile that is uniquely muted. Thus, even though they employ different materials, both switches deliver smooth typing experiences; the Elf achieves this through the synergy of its specialized top and bottom housings, while the Iron relies on the cohesive qualities of its POM material across the board.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, we find differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to various user preferences. The Huano Elf has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it slightly heavier than the TTC Iron's 41 grams. This difference in actuation force means that the Elf might provide a more pronounced push feel, which some users may prefer for a substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force information for the Elf is unavailable, so we cannot directly compare how it feels when pressed all the way down. In contrast, the TTC Iron features a bottom out force of 50 grams, which indicates a firmer feel upon complete actuation, likely favoring users who enjoy a sense of resistance when typing. As it stands, the Huano Elf is the heavier switch, while the TTC Iron is lighter in terms of actuation force. Overall, users seeking a lighter option for long typing sessions may gravitate toward the TTC Iron, while those who prefer a better tactile feedback and a firmer keystroke might opt for the Huano Elf.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iron has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Huano Elf the shorter option, ideal for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the TTC Iron, with its greater depth, may be more suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback when pressing the keys. While both switches are within the range that caters to varying preferences in the typing experience, the distinct travel distances suggest that users looking for a more responsive feel should opt for the Elf, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke might favor the Iron.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Elf switch is characterized by its deep sound signature that is enhanced by its POK top housing. This results in a richer acoustic profile during typing. Conversely, the TTC Iron switch features a pronounced clacky sound that delivers a sharp, crisp auditory feedback with each key press. While the Elf offers a more subdued sound experience, the Iron's percussive notes provide a vivid auditory satisfaction. However, it’s essential to note that the overall sound each switch produces can still be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Huano Elf is recognized for its medium-light actuation force, which contributes to a pleasurable typing experience that balances responsiveness with comfort. In contrast, the TTC Iron boasts an incredibly light actuation force that allows for easy key presses, effectively minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. This switch also provides a buttery smooth travel, making it a favorite among those who prioritize a seamless typing experience. While both switches aim to deliver a supportive typing feel, the Elf presents a slightly more moderate feedback while the Iron leans towards heightened ease and smoothness.

In summary, the Huano Elf and the TTC Iron linear switches each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Elf excels with its deep sound and balanced feel, suitable for those who appreciate a richer auditory experience without compromising comfort. On the other hand, the Iron stands out with its pronounced clacky sound and extremely light actuation, perfect for users who prioritize quick, effortless typing and an engaging feedback. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual user preferences, but both promise a satisfying typing experience in their own right.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you desire. If you're looking for a satisfying, medium-light feel with enhanced acoustics, the Elf may be your best option, especially if you appreciate a typing experience that emphasizes deeper sound signatures. It's great for users who enjoy a more subdued sound without compromising on the overall tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light actuation force with pronounced auditory feedback, the TTC Iron linear switch could be the right fit for you. Its clacky sound signature and buttery smooth travel make it ideal for fast-paced typing sessions, while its easy-to-press nature can help reduce finger fatigue during extensive use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences in sound, feel, and the typing environment; so consider what you value most in your daily typing activities.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

TTC Iron Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

Learn more