Huano Elf vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the smooth, linear feedback of the Huano Elf and the tactile, punchy response of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Elf switch is renowned for its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also delivers a delightful deep sound signature paired with a medium-light feel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying and efficient typing experience. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 stands out as a tactile switch designed for maximum tactility, offering a sharp and invigorating feedback with a clean clack that many users find particularly appealing for both typing and gaming. While both switches cater to different preferences—smooth operation versus sharp tactile response—they each bring unique advantages to the table. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), distinct characteristics emerge that affect the overall switch performance and sound profile. The Huano Elf employs a POK (polyketone) top housing, which boasts a lower coefficient of friction than many common materials, making it exceptionally smooth in operation. This material is also particularly durable, with wear resistance significantly surpassing POM by a factor of 14. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a unique sound profile that is distinctly deeper and more muted. Although both materials allow for smooth keypresses, the Elf’s POK material tends to provide a crisper feel, whereas the Durock's POM results in a more subdued auditory experience.
Both switches utilize different bottom housing materials that influence tactile feedback and sound depth. The Huano Elf’s nylon bottom housing is a classic choice in the keyboard community due to its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory profile that some typists find satisfying. The Durock POM T1 maintains a POM bottom housing which also contributes a muted sound profile but in a way that may feel more distinct due to the homogeneous material throughout. While the Elf’s nylon will produce a rounder sound due to its softer nature, the POM in the T1 promises a consistent yet unique acoustic quality that straddles the line between depth and resonance.
Ultimately, the key differentiator between these two switches lies in the synergy between their housing materials. The combination of a robust POK top and a sound-absorbing nylon bottom in the Huano Elf results in a distinct tactile experience and diverse sound profile, especially during bottoming out. In contrast, the POM T1 offers a uniformly constructed housing that provides a cohesive sound experience at both ends. While the materials differ, users can achieve similar performance in terms of smoothness and depth, making each switch appealing for different preferences. Both switches prove that the selection of materials lends itself to varying tactile and auditory experiences, catering to the preferences of diverse typists.
Weight
The Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch present distinct characteristics regarding their actuation and bottom out forces. The Elf features an actuation force of 42 grams, providing a relatively light feel, which is beneficial for prolonged typing and gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. However, the bottom out force for the Elf is not specified, leaving that aspect of the switch unclear. In contrast, the POM T1 has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy, which implies a more substantial push feel that may be preferable for users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the Elf is the lighter option in terms of actuation force, potentially attracting those who prioritize a softer touch. In summary, while the Huano Elf offers a lighter actuation force, the Durock POM T1’s clear bottom out force indicates a stronger tactile feedback, catering to differing preferences in switch characteristics.
Travel distance
The Huano Elf linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Elf switch the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that is often favored by gamers seeking quicker actuation times. In contrast, the POM T1, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. While both switches are designed for different preferences in travel distance, the Elf's shorter travel may be better for those who appreciate a snappier response, whereas the POM T1 caters to users who enjoy deeper keystrokes and a more traditional typing experience.
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 POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Huano Elf linear switch delivers a deep and rich sound signature, characterized by its emphasis on acoustics thanks to the POK top housing. This provides a satisfying auditory experience that is both unique and mellow, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued noise profile. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a different sound experience with its resonant and sometimes sharp tones, producing a clean clack that cuts through the air. This switch tends to create a higher-pitched auditory profile, making it feel more lively and responsive. The overall sound produced by each switch can vary greatly depending on the typing surface, case, and keycap choice, but generally, the Elf leans towards a deeper tone while the T1 provides a clearer, more pronounced sound.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Elf switch provides a medium-light typing experience, designed to offer comfort without sacrificing performance. The linear nature may not provide tactile feedback, but its smooth sliding action still delivers satisfaction during prolonged use. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its exceptional tactility; the sharp tactile bump offers a distinct sensation with each keystroke. This switch combines qualities such as being snappy and invigorating, which enhances the overall typing experience with its pronounced feedback and responsive actuation. The Elf switch is more about smoothness, while the T1 excels at providing a dynamic and engaging tactile input.
In conclusion, both the Huano Elf and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches possess unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among typists. The Elf provides a deep, mellow sound with a smooth experience, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the T1 offers pronounced tactility and a sharp, clean sound, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more interactive and responsive feel while typing. Ultimately, both switches provide quality experiences, but the choice between them will depend on whether you prioritize sound refinement or tactile responsiveness.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a medium-light feel and are looking for a smooth, linear experience that delivers enhanced acoustics with a deeper sound signature, the Huano Elf is the ideal option for you. Its lightweight nature makes it an excellent fit for those who intend to use their keyboard for extended periods, especially if comfort during long typing sessions is a priority. On the other hand, if you crave a more tactile experience with a pronounced bump and enjoy the crisp, resonant sound of each keypress, the Durock POM T1 will satisfy your needs. This switch’s medium-heavy actuation force and sharper tactility offer a more engaging feedback experience, making it well-suited for users who appreciate the sensation of each keystroke and opt for a snappier, invigorating typing experience. Therefore, consider what aspects of keyboard feel, feedback, and sound are most important to you when making your decision between these two quality switches.
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