Huano Elf vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference, particularly between options like the Huano Elf and the HMX Sunset Gleam, both of which fall under the linear category. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing that enhances acoustics while delivering a deep sound signature, paired with a medium-light actuation force that provides a satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate tactile feedback without the disruptive click. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offers a perfect blend of high-quality materials that not only bring a gentle top-out but also an appealing clack, complemented by HMX's renowned factory lube that ensures a smooth keystroke. While both switches offer distinct advantages suited to different typing styles, choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prefer the deep resonance of the Elf or the subtly enhanced sound and smoothness of the Sunset Gleam. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Huano Elf Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the HMX Sunset Gleam, notable differences emerge, particularly in the top housing. The Elf utilizes polyketone (POK) for its top housing, which is renowned for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK achieves a level of tactile fluidity that is excellent for switches, while also offering superior shock resistance compared to nylon and POM. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam features polycarbonate in its top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer composition. Polycarbonate’s translucency makes it optimal for RGB lighting applications, providing an aesthetic advantage that POK does not inherently possess. Thus, while both materials serve well in their own right, their acoustic characteristics provide distinct auditory experiences, with the Elf delivering a smoother and more muted response versus the crisper tones of the Sunset Gleam.

Turning to the bottom housing, both the Huano Elf and the HMX Sunset Gleam utilize nylon, a classic choice known for its sound-absorbing qualities. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile, making it effective in softening the overall keypress noise and enhancing the typing experience. This similarity means that both switches will exhibit a deeper sound when bottomed out, regardless of the differences in their respective top housings. This shared material in the bottom housing ensures that both the Elf and Sunset Gleam reinforce a more muted auditory experience at the point of actuation since nylon absorbs sound effectively.

In essence, while the top housing materials of the Huano Elf and HMX Sunset Gleam achieve different sound profiles and tactile sensations—POK's smoothness versus polycarbonate's clarity—their nylon bottom housings create a cohesive grounding in both switches via similar acoustic properties. This architectural distinction ensures that each switch maintains unique traits that appeal to different user preferences while still providing a consistent depth of sound due to their shared bottom housing material. Therefore, despite their variances, the overall user experience incorporates aspects from each housing, leading to a well-rounded performance at the keyboard.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom-out forces of the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 42 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar initial resistance when pressing either switch. However, the significant difference lies in the bottom-out force, as the Sunset Gleam has a bottom-out force of 48 grams while the bottom-out force for the Elf is unavailable. This suggests that the Elf may provide a slightly less definitive response when fully pressed down, leading to a potentially different typing experience. In terms of weight preference, the Elf could be considered slightly lighter due to its unknown bottom-out force, whereas the Sunset Gleam’s heavier bottom-out force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, for users who prioritize longer typing sessions, the Elf may be more comfortable, while those who appreciate a stronger feedback may favor the Sunset Gleam.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Elf offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Huano Elf provides a more pronounced depth with its longer travel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile feel when typing. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, if you lean towards a preference for responsiveness, the HMX Sunset Gleam would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial keypress might find the Huano Elf more satisfying.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Huano Elf linear switch is characterized by a deep sound signature that tends to project a rich, resonant tone when typing. This acoustics-driven design, featuring a POK top housing, enhances the overall auditory experience, making each keystroke feel satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a more subtle auditory experience, producing a satisfying clack when bottoming out, which is bolstered by excellent factory lubrication. This combination of materials results in a nuanced sound that may suit those who prefer a less overwhelming auditory feedback while still enjoying a pleasant typing experience. However, it's important to note that the final sound produced can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and chosen keycaps for either switch.

When it comes to feel, the Elf switch showcases a medium-light actuation force that tends to provide a comfortable typing experience for long sessions. It's designed to be responsive, making it an appealing choice for typists who enjoy a light touch without sacrificing performance. The Sunset Gleam, on the other hand, is crafted with a focus on delivering a subtle top-out feel, combined with a rewarding actuation that benefits from HMX's careful attention to factory lubrication. This results in a smooth typing experience, making it ideal for both gamers and typists seeking a tactile satisfaction without the overwhelming force often found in stiffer switches.

In summary, both the Huano Elf and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Elf excels in delivering a deep auditory profile and medium-light feel, the Sunset Gleam emphasizes a subtle sound with an enjoyable actuation, enriched by its factory lubrication. Ultimately, both switches provide satisfying experiences, and your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a richer sound or a more subtle auditory feedback, as well as how each aligns with your typing preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, it's essential to take into account your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a plush feel, the Elf is an excellent choice due to its medium-light touch and exceptional acoustic design that provides a deep sound signature, making it ideal for typists seeking a comfortable and enjoyable experience, especially during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile engagement with a light actuation force, the Sunset Gleam's 48 grams bottom-out force combined with its refined materials offers a satisfying clack along with impressive factory lubrication for smooth key presses. The Sunset Gleam is particularly advantageous for gamers or those who appreciate a slight auditory feedback, enhancing both the typing and gaming experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a plush, acoustically rich experience or a slightly more tactile and responsive feel.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more