Huano Elf vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and HMX Lucky both present compelling options for typists seeking linear switches, yet they cater to different preferences and experiences. The Huano Elf is renowned for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics, providing a rich and deep sound signature complemented by a medium-light actuation feel, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback alongside tactile comfort. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky features softer, glittery nylon housings that offer a lightweight and neutral typing feel, perfect for users who favor a more streamlined and unobtrusive experience. While both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, their distinct construction and feel can significantly influence user preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Elf and the HMX Lucky switches showcase distinct characteristics that contribute significantly to their respective sound profiles and tactile feel. The Huano Elf's top housing is made from polyketone (POK), a material known for its superior durability and smoothness, boasting a coefficient of friction of 0.04. This makes it more slippery than the nylon used in the HMX Lucky's top housing, which contributes to a softer sound profile. In terms of durability, the Elf's POK material is 14 times more wear-resistant than POM and also offers a significant advantage in shock resistance, surpassing nylon by 2.3 times. Therefore, while the Elf may produce a more pronounced clack upon release due to its hard top housing, the Lucky likely delivers a warmer, softer sound due to nylon's inherent ability to absorb sound.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which creates a continuity in their sound profiles despite the differences in their top materials. Since nylon is a softer plastic, both the Elf and the Lucky switches benefit from a deeper and fuller sound when typing, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This similarity means that the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent across both models, as they lever the acoustic properties of nylon to achieve a richer sound. The shared use of nylon as the bottom housing material ensures that the warmth and softness permeate the tactile experience, despite the contrasting top materials.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housings with a common bottom housing leads to a nuanced distinction in the overall performance of the Huano Elf and the HMX Lucky switches. While the Elf's POK top housing provides enhanced durability and a crisper sound on release, the Lucky's nylon top mitigates harshness, resulting in a muted response. However, both switches share a complementary bottom housing material that anchors the typing experience, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy a deeper auditory resonance under their fingertips, irrespective of the differences in their top housings. This synergy allows both models to deliver satisfying, yet unique, tactile and auditory feedback, appealing to different user preferences in the switch market.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Elf remains unknown. The Huano Elf has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it heavier than the HMX Lucky's 37 grams, which indicates that the Elf may provide a more substantial typing experience favored by users who appreciate a firmer press. In contrast, the lighter actuation of the Lucky may enhance comfort during prolonged typing or gaming sessions, making it an appealing option for those seeking ease of use over longer durations. Regarding the bottom out forces, the Lucky has a specified bottom out force of 43 grams, but since the Elf's bottom out force is unavailable, we cannot draw a direct comparison there. However, if their bottom out forces were the same, users would likely experience a similar overall feel upon reaching the bottom, despite the Elf’s heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lucky offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Elf switch is preferable for those who favor a shorter travel distance, which can provide faster response times, especially beneficial for gamers. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky's travel distance caters to individuals who prefer a heftier feel with more depth in their keystrokes. Essentially, if you are inclined toward rapid actuation, the Huano Elf is the more suitable choice, whereas the HMX Lucky may appeal to those who appreciate a less abrupt experience. In summary, the Elf is the shorter option at 3.6 mm, whereas the Lucky is the longer switch at 3.8 mm.
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 HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 known for its deep sound signature, enhanced by its POK top housing, which contributes positively to the acoustics. This results in a more pronounced auditory experience during each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky linear switch, characterized by its softer and glittery nylon housing, tends to produce a lighter, more neutral sound profile. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the final sound delivery will also depend on additional elements such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, which can significantly influence resonance and noise levels.
Regarding feel, the Elf switch is recognized for its medium-light actuation force, providing a satisfying typing experience that strikes a balance between responsive feedback and comfort during prolonged use. This makes it suitable for both typing and gaming, as it allows for quick key presses without feeling too stiff. Conversely, the Lucky switch offers a lightweight feel, contributing to a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience. Its design emphasizes ease of use, allowing for smooth, effortless key presses that cater to a variety of typing styles and preferences.
In summary, both the Huano Elf and HMX Lucky linear switches present their own unique auditory and tactile qualities. The Elf showcases a deep sound and medium-light feel, whereas the Lucky offers a more neutral sound and lightweight actuation. If you're considering either switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience from both, although the differences in sound and feel may cater to personal preferences and specific use cases. Ultimately, exploring both switches will help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style and acoustic enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch comes down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you enjoy a deep sound signature coupled with a medium-light feel that enhances acoustics, the Huano Elf switch could be your best bet. Its unique POK top housing makes it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback along with the tactile sensation of typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that offers a neutral and deeply pleasing typing experience, the HMX Lucky is worth considering. Its softer nylon housing not only adds a glittery aesthetic but also results in a very comfortable feel, especially if you find heavier switches tiring. Keep in mind how you type and what sound profile resonates with you; this will ultimately guide your decision between these two excellent linear switches.
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