Huano Elf vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly impact your typing experience. The Huano Elf switch, a linear option, is celebrated for its POK top housing that enhances acoustics, providing a deep sound signature and a medium-light feel that many users find satisfying for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch, known for its tactile feedback, offers a pleasant medium bump during actuation that caters to those who appreciate a more defined keystroke. The sound produced by the T1 has been likened to rain falling against a window, adding an auditory charm that enhances the overall experience. If you prefer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, the Elf may be your best bet, while the tactile feedback of the T1 can elevate your typing with more pronounced feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect 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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the top housing materials of the Huano Elf and Durock T1 switches, significant differences emerge in terms of sound profile and performance characteristics. The Elf features a POK (polyketone) top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction at 0.04, it offers a gliding keypress experience that contributes to the smooth and clacky feel of the switch. Conversely, the T1 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness. This material's transmissive properties not only create a crisp auditory experience but also enhance aesthetics when RGB lighting is incorporated. Thus, while both materials aim to improve switch performance, they approach sound and feel differently, with the POK excelling in smoothness and durability, while polycarbonate focuses on resonance and clarity.
Examining the bottom housing, both the Elf and T1 switches employ nylon, a classic material that delivers a deep and full sound profile. This consistency in bottom housing material creates a shared auditory experience across both switch types, where the softer nature of nylon absorbs sound, leading to a rounder feel during keypresses. This similarity highlights the importance of bottom housing in shaping the overall typing experience, as the deeper sound produced by nylon becomes a unifying feature despite the differing top housings. Users can expect a consistent bottom-out sound and feel, regardless of whether they opt for the Elf or T1 switches.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches results in a unique interplay of sonic characteristics. The varying top housings create distinct auditory profiles—where the Elf's POK enhances smoothness and durability, the T1's polycarbonate promotes a sharper and crisper sound. However, the identical nylon bottom housing serves to create a common bond in their acoustic foundation. Therefore, while the Elf and T1 exhibit pronounced differences in their top materials, they harmonize through their shared nylon base, producing a fuller sound experience that users will appreciate across either brand.
Weight
The Huano Elf linear switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer less resistance while typing, which can be beneficial for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed down, but its actuation force remains unknown. This suggests that the T1 may provide a more substantial typing experience due to the higher bottom out force, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push feel. While the Elf is clearly the lighter switch based on the known actuation force, the comparative bottom out force of the T1 indicates that it is heavier overall. Without knowing the actuation force of the T1, it is difficult to draw precise parallels, but the Elf's known force provides a clearer picture for those seeking a lighter switch for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that there is a distinction between the two. The Huano Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Elf switch has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or users who prefer quicker response times and a more snappy feel during key presses. On the other hand, the T1, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, providing a tactile feedback that some users find more satisfying. Thus, if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the Elf would be the ideal choice, whereas the T1 might be favored for a more substantial 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 T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 switch offers a deep sound signature facilitated by its POK top housing, which is designed to enhance acoustics. This results in a rich and resonant tone that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Durock T1 exhibits a low-pitched sound reminiscent of raindrops falling on a window, which delivers a more mellow auditory experience overall. The T1's sound can be characterized as neutral, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office. Ultimately, while the Elf provides a deeper resonance, the T1's softer acoustic profile offers a comfortable balance that could fit different preferences depending on the user's environment and keycap choice.
Regarding feel, the Elf is known for its medium-light sensation, engaging users with a pleasant typing experience. While the specifics of the Elf's tactile feedback are not detailed, the overall impression is one of comfort and ease. Contrasting this, the Durock T1 is well-regarded for its stepped tactile bump, creating a distinct two-stage feel during typing. This tactile sensation is complemented by its accented nature, striking a perfect balance between being noticeable without being overwhelming. Furthermore, the polished finish of the T1 enhances its smoothness and reduces friction throughout key travel, contributing to a refined tactile experience. While the Elf may provide a breezy experience, the T1 excels in delivering a more pronounced tactile feedback that can be highly satisfying.
In summary, both the Huano Elf and Durock T1 switches serve distinct preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Elf presents a deep sound profile with a lightweight feel, making it a great choice for those who appreciate immersive acoustics. On the other hand, the T1 offers a mellow sound and a well-defined tactile experience that combines a balanced bump with smoothness, ideal for users who enjoy that tactile feedback without overwhelming sensations. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, catering to different auditory and tactile preferences in mechanical keyboard usage.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a smooth, linear feel with a lighter actuation and an appealing acoustic profile, the Huano Elf is an excellent choice, especially for activities like gaming or fast-paced typing where rapid key presses are crucial. The Elf’s unique housing contributes to a satisfying sound and experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy aesthetics and acoustics in their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you are someone who appreciates tactile feedback while typing or needs a more deliberate keypress for tasks such as coding or writing, then the Durock T1 would serve you better. Its medium-heavy actuation force along with the pronounced bump provides a comfortable typing experience, bridging the gap between tactile satisfaction and overall smoothness. Therefore, weigh your priorities—if you crave a linear feel and a deep sound, go for the Elf; but if you value a tactile response while typing, the T1 is your best bet.
Mentioned in this article
