Huano Elf vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing among mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy contenders are the Huano Elf and the Durock Sea Glass, both of which are linear switches that cater to distinct typing preferences. The Huano Elf is often praised for its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also produces a rich, deep sound signature paired with a medium-light feel for an enjoyable typing experience. It excels in delivering a satisfying balance for those who appreciate tactile feedback without the noise of clicky switches. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass series impresses with its five pastel colors and a typing experience defined by a unique dryness and airiness, thanks to its proprietary material blend. While these switches boast a lightweight 62g bottom-out force, they offer a surprisingly smooth and frictionless experience, complemented by a distinctively hollow sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a quieter, more understated feedback. Each switch brings its own strengths to the table: the Elf for those seeking an engaging acoustic profile and moderate feedback, and the Sea Glass for those who value a lighter touch with a visually appealing design. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
P3+
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Elf and Durock Sea Glass switches present an intriguing comparison between durability and acoustic properties. The Elf’s top housing is constructed from POK material, a highly durable polyketone that boasts a low coefficient of friction (0.04) and impressive wear and shock resistance. This strength makes it an excellent choice for ensuring smooth and long-lasting switch performance. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass employs a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, which, while not as rigorously described in terms of durability metrics, is noted for producing a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile. The differences in material composition suggest that while both materials excel in performance, their specific attributes cater to slightly varied preferences among users—POK prioritizing durability, while the Sea Glass focuses on sound quality.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, the most significant similarity lies in the use of nylon, which is a classic choice for switch constructions. The Huano Elf’s nylon bottom housing offers a full and deep sound profile due to its softer plastic material, which tends to absorb sound more effectively than stiffer alternatives. Similarly, the Durock Sea Glass also incorporates nylon within its bottom housing but blends it with UHMWPE to achieve a unique sound quality that is described as pleasant and somewhat brighter. This shared use of nylon allows both switches to produce a richer auditory experience; however, the blending with UHMWPE in the Sea Glass may lend it a distinctive tonal character compared to the Elf's more traditional approach.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housing materials in both the Elf and Sea Glass switches determines their overall acoustic and tactile responses. While the Elf's POK top enhances smooth operation and durability, the nylon bottom deepens the sound profile, resulting in a cohesive experience. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass merges its polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in both top and bottom housings to create a unique sound profile that is less dependent on the individual materials. Users may find similar overall performance from each switch, but the variations in sound quality and feel can lead to different preferences among typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch to the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, we see some notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Elf has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke, which can be advantageous for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Sea Glass requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, while the Elf’s bottom out force is not specified, the Sea Glass has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a stronger push feel when the key is fully pressed down. Overall, the Huano Elf could appeal to users seeking a lighter touch, while the Durock Sea Glass caters to those who enjoy a stronger, more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Elf switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Glass switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference indicates that the Elf switch is the shorter option, making it potentially more favorable for gamers who seek quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, the Sea Glass, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress and a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and tactile feedback.
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 Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 offers a rich auditory experience. Its POK top housing enhances acoustics, contributing to a full-bodied sound that many users find satisfying during typing sessions. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch features a distinctly hollow sound profile attributed to its proprietary material blend. This creates a sound that is lighter, airy, and somewhat wispy, which can be appealing for those who prefer a less resonant auditory feel. Despite the differences in sound character, those utilizing either switch within a well-chosen setup of keyboard and keycaps can achieve satisfying auditory results tailored to their preferences.
When considering the tactile feel, the Huano Elf is described as medium-light, promoting a comfortable yet engaging typing experience. The Elf maintains a sense of resistance that contributes to typing satisfaction without being overly taxing. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches excel in their frictionless nature, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. The Sea Glass switches are characterized by their gentle and feathery actuation, making them easy to press and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The combination of mild behavior and a light actuation force invites a gentle and user-friendly experience that can appeal to both new users and seasoned typists alike.
In summary, both the Huano Elf and Durock Sea Glass linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences that can influence your typing experience. The Elf provides a robust and rich sound with a more engaging feel, while the Sea Glass showcases a lighter, airier sound along with an exceptionally smooth and easy-to-press tactile sensation. Ultimately, whether you're leaning towards the deep resonance and satisfying feel of the Elf or the light, frictionless typing experience of the Sea Glass, both switches can deliver a pleasurable typing experience depending on the setup and personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a typing experience characterized by satisfying acoustics and a medium-light feel, the Elf switch may be your best option. Its design is tailored for those who enjoy a deeper sound signature and a gentle feedback sensation, making it a fantastic fit for office environments or prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, if you are looking for a switch that balances a dynamic sound profile with remarkable smoothness and a unique aesthetic appeal, the Durock Sea Glass might be more your style. With its 62g bottom-out force, you will experience a gratifying typing experience that feels surprisingly light for its weight, ideal for fast-paced gaming or high-speed typing where you appreciate a bit of tactile performance while minimizing resistance. In summary, choose the Elf for a soft, rich acoustic experience and the Sea Glass for a breezy, frictionless sensation combined with standout visuals. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different needs, ensuring you can find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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