Huano Elf vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Elf and Gateron Luciola stand out as compelling options that cater to different preferences. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also provides a deep sound signature, complemented by a medium-light feel that many users find satisfying for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola dazzles with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, offering a smooth and bouncy typing experience that appeals to those who enjoy a bit of flair alongside functionality. With a medium heft and a unique sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, the Luciola caters to a diverse range of auditory preferences, categorized as snappy, clacky, and more. Both switches offer distinct experiences: the Elf for those who prioritize acoustics and a lighter feel, and the Luciola for users seeking a vibrant and dynamic typing environment. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Gateron Luciola, it's evident that they utilize distinct materials that contribute uniquely to their performance characteristics. The Huano Elf features a polyketone (POK) top housing, which is known for its remarkably low friction coefficient of 0.04, resulting in a smooth keystroke experience. Durability is another highlighted feature of POK, boasting wear resistance significantly stronger than that of POM—14 times stronger, to be precise. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which provides a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. While both materials create a pleasant keystroke sound, the Elf's choice primarily emphasizes smoothness and durability, contributing to a distinct sound that may feel fuller when compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend.
Examining the bottom housing materials reveals further distinctions between the two switches. The Huano Elf's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing characteristics, leading to a more rounded auditory experience. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola matches its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing as well, resulting in a consistent sound profile that mirrors the higher-pitched clackiness found in its top housing. This cohesion between top and bottom materials in the Luciola reinforces a unified sound signature, whereas the Elf's combination of POK on top and nylon at the bottom creates a divergence, blending high and low sounds for a richer auditory effect.
Ultimately, while the Huano Elf and Gateron Luciola utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, they each deliver unique tactile and acoustic sensations. The Elf's POK and nylon combination contrasts with the Luciola's consistent INK blend, emphasizing that each switch's sound and feel is a product of their respective materials. For those seeking a smooth and deep sound, the Elf provides that through its dual housing materials, while the Luciola appeals to users who prefer a cohesive, high-pitched experience across its housing. By understanding how these different housing materials influence sound and feel, one can better appreciate the variety and dynamics available in mechanical switch offerings.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch to the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force that cater to different preferences. The Huano Elf has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a switch that facilitates longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola has a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial feel that might appeal to users who enjoy a stronger feedback during typing. The Luciola also has a well-defined bottom out force of 60 grams, while the bottom out force for the Elf is unavailable. This means that while the specific bottom out force cannot be compared, the Luciola’s marked bottom out may contribute to a more tactile experience. For those who favor ease and speed in key presses, the lighter Huano Elf is ideal, whereas the heavier Gateron Luciola may suit users who desire a firmer switch with a more pronounced keystroke.
Travel distance
The Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they offer identical key press distances from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and responsiveness when using either switch, as the consistent travel distance contributes to a comparable typing experience. This uniformity means that regardless of which switch is chosen, the performance in terms of key travel will be the same, allowing for seamless transition between the two for users who are accustomed to one or the other.
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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 it comes to sound, the Huano Elf linear switch is noted for its deep sound signature, a result of its POK top housing that enhances acoustics. This contrasts sharply with the Gateron Luciola linear switch, which is characterized by a vibrant sound profile featuring elements that can be described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. The Luciola's sound evokes the sensation of a “can of spray paint being shaken,” introducing a distinct auditory experience that is more lively and complex compared to the subdued and deeper tones of the Elf.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch presents a medium-light typing experience that is designed to be satisfying for users, making it accessible for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch offers a more medium heft with a smooth and bouncy sensation that can be described as snappy. This snappiness can contribute to a more responsive typing experience, while the buttery and polished characteristics provide a seamless and refined keystroke sensation. The variety in tactile feedback between the two makes the Luciola potentially more engaging for users who enjoy a more energetic and lively feel during typing.
Overall, both the Huano Elf and Gateron Luciola switches deliver unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Elf switch offers a deep sound and a medium-light feel, making it suitable for those who appreciate a more subdued auditory experience paired with a lighter touch. Conversely, the Luciola switch’s diverse sound profile and responsive feel cater to users who prefer a more dynamic playing field in their typing escapades. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can find satisfaction in either of these switches; those who enjoy lighter, deeper tones might gravitate toward the Elf, while those seeking a more elevated and responsive experience may lean toward the Luciola.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes to choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, you should consider both your auditory preferences and the tactile feel you desire from your keyboard. If you are someone who appreciates a deep sound signature and a lighter feel while typing, the Elf switch could be your optimal choice. Its design with a POK top housing enhances acoustics, giving you an enjoyable typing experience without the weight, making it ideal for long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced, snappy response combined with a medium-bottom out force, the Gateron Luciola is the way to go. Not only do they have an eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, but their sound profile includes some clacky and chirpy elements combined with a smooth, bouncy feel, which can make each keystroke feel lively and responsive. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your tactile preferences and whether you value a distinctive acoustic signature or a more prominent tactile feedback during your typing experience.
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