01EDC SLIDER CORE COMPLETE GUIDE 2026
⏱️ Read time: 10-12 minutes
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When you first encounter 01EDC, the reaction is usually confusion
A slider's a slider, right? Why split the shell and core? Why not just sell a complete unit?
The answer lies in 01EDC's core product philosophy. Let's break it down.
The Shell/Core System: Think Modular
Slider = Shell + Core
01EDC sliders use a two-part detachable design:
🎨 Shell (The Look)
Handles aesthetics, grip, visual appeal
Focus: Form, finish, feel in hand
⚙️ Core (The Action)
Handles mechanism & tactile feel
Actions: Push, twist, eject, side-push
Why sell them separately?
Think about it. If every mechanism required buying a complete slider:
- Magnet core slider? Buy one.
- Tuning Fork core slider? Buy another.
- Dense core slider? Buy yet another.
Your drawer would overflow with duplicate shells.
01's solution: Pick one shell you love, then swap cores based on your mood—magnetic on Monday, mechanical on Tuesday. Most mainstream shells are compatible with most cores, giving you maximum flexibility without buying redundant shells.
Experience every mechanism without collecting duplicate shells. That's 01EDC's pitch: "One shell, endless feels."
The Custom Keyboard Analogy
If you're into mech keyboards, this'll click:
| Product | Structure | Swappable Part |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Keyboard | Case + PCB + Switches + Keycaps | Swap switches = Change feel |
| 01EDC Slider | Shell + Core | Swap core = Change mechanism |
Plus, 01 drops at least 2 new cores per year. The modular system lets them iterate on mechanisms without redesigning shells every time.
How should newcomers buy?
| Option | Who It's For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Shell + 1 Core | Total beginners | Buy a bundle, don't buy pieces solo |
| 1 Shell + Multi Cores | Confirmed fans | Cost-effective variety |
| Multi Shells + Multi Cores | Collectors / Enthusiasts | Mix shell styles & mechanisms |
⚠️ Beginner tip: Start with a bundle (shell + one core). Don't buy a bare shell or bare core first.
All 12 Cores at a Glance
Now that you get the shell/core split, let's meet 01EDC's three core families: Pure Magnetic, Pure Mechanical, and Hybrid/Specialty.
Quick overview first, then we'll dive deep.
The 12-Core Cheat Sheet
| Family | Core Name | Feel | Status | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Magnetic |
Magnet Core | CP3-like snap, 8 detents | ❌ Discontinued | Collectors |
| Tuning Fork Core | Crisp tuning fork ping | ✅ Limited stock | Silent lovers | |
| Infinity Core | Side-push tricks | ⚠️ Limited/TBD | Trick flippers | |
| Pure Mechanical (Push) |
3-Layer Segmented | Crisp, distinct clicks | ✅ In stock | Entry-level |
| 3-Layer Dense | Tight, rapid ticks | ✅ In stock | Bestseller | |
| 3-Layer Ultra-Dense | Even tighter, asymmetric | ✅ In stock | Advanced users | |
| 2-Layer Ultra-Thin | Swappable track plates | ✅ In stock | Modularity fans | |
| Pure Mechanical (Tricks) |
Rotary Core | Dense push + twist | ⚠️ Limited | Twist fans |
| 3-Layer Rotary | Dense + twist + magnet | ✅ In stock | Multi-action | |
| Pure Mechanical (Eject) |
Ejector Core | Dense + spring snap | ✅ In stock | Ejector fans |
| Hybrid | Buckyball Core | Dense mech + squishy | ✅ In stock/Limited | Dual feedback |
| Inner Ejector Core | TBD | 🔜 Jan 2026 drop | Upcoming |
Three Families Compared
| Type | Core Feature | Sound | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Magnetic | Magnet-only | Silent + soft snaps | Smooth, fewer detents |
| Pure Mechanical | Springs/bearings | Crispy ticks | Rich detents, crisp feedback |
| Hybrid | Mech + magnet | Mech ticks + mag snaps | Dual feedback, complex |
Quick Decision Guide
Not sure which family? Ask yourself three questions:
-
Quiet or loud?
→ Quiet = Pure Magnetic | Loud = Pure Mechanical -
Beginner or veteran?
→ Beginner = Segmented/Dense | Veteran = Tricks/Hybrid -
Budget?
→ Tight = 1 shell + 1 core | Flexible = Multi-core collection
Let's dig into each family now.
Pure Magnetic Cores: Silent & Smooth
Pure magnetic cores rely entirely on magnet attraction/repulsion—no springs, no bearings, no balls.
Why do people like "detent-free" feels?
Because pure magnetic snap is unique: silent, smooth, just that satisfying "clack" of magnets locking.
01EDC offers three magnetic cores: Magnet Core, Tuning Fork Core, Infinity Core.
The Three Magnetic Cores Compared
| Core | Detents | Sound | Special | Status | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnet Core | 8 | Pure mag "clack" | None | Discontinued | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Tuning Fork Core | 4 | Crisp fork ping | None | Limited stock | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Infinity Core | - | - | Side-push tricks | Limited/TBD | ⭐⭐ |
1. Magnet Core: First-Gen, Discontinued
Magnet Core is 01EDC's OG product, the pure magnetic flagship.
- Detents: 4 up + 4 down = 8 magnetic stops
- Feel: Every slide gives you that magnetic "click," no mechanical noise, pure mag feedback
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Zirconium (Zirc)
- Status: Discontinued
Though discontinued, Magnet Core represents 01's early magnetic explorations and laid groundwork for Tuning Fork and Infinity cores.
2. Tuning Fork Core: Crisp Ping, Currently In Stock ⭐Recommended
Tuning Fork Core is the evolved magnetic design, named for its unique "tuning fork" structure.
- Detents: 2 up + 2 down = 4 magnetic stops
- Sound: Emits a crisp "tuning fork ping" when locked
- Feel: Bouncier than Magnet Core
- Materials: Zirconium Gen 1 (2-slot), Zirc Gen 2 (3-slot, more magnets, richer feel)
- Status: Limited stock
💡 Tuning Fork Core has the longest production run in the magnetic family and is currently the only pure mag core in stock. If you want pure magnetic feel, this is your best bet.
3. Infinity Core: Side-Push Tricks, Limited
Infinity Core is the magnetic innovator, breaking the "push-only" limitation.
- Structure: 6+6 magnet array
- Action: Supports side-pushing, allows trick moves
- Feature: Glue-free magnet design, user-swappable/adjustable
- Materials: Stainless Steel (limited dozens)
- Status: Limited, TBD
Infinity Core represents 01's magnetic innovation—not just push, but side-push and tricks. Due to limited drops, extremely rare.
Pure Magnetic vs Mechanical: Which One?
✅ Magnetic Pros
- Silent (office/library-friendly)
- Smooth (no mechanical resistance)
- Unique magnetic snap feel
❌ Magnetic Cons
- Fewer detents vs mechanical
- Limited playability (mostly push-only)
- Discontinued models hard to find
Decision Guide:
- Want quiet, pure magnetic snap → Go Tuning Fork Core (currently in stock)
- Want rich detents, mechanical feedback → Go mechanical cores
- Collector wanting first-gen → Hunt Magnet Core on secondary market
Pure Mechanical Cores: Segmented to Ultra-Dense
If pure magnetic cores chase "silent smooth," pure mechanical cores chase "mechanical crunch"—crisp sounds, clear detents, rich tactile feedback.
Among all mechanical cores, push-type is the classic, best-selling family.
Core Feature of Pure Mechanical Push Cores
Rely entirely on mechanical structure (springs, tracks, bearings, balls) for detents and stops.
💡 Key advantage: Asymmetric up/down travel—longer up stroke lets you comfortably hit all detents in natural grip.
Four Push Cores Overview
| Core | Detents | Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Layer Segmented | 10 up + 6 down | Crisp, distinct | Entry-level |
| 3-Layer Dense | 20 up + 10 down | Tight, rapid ticks | Bestseller |
| 3-Layer Ultra-Dense | More | Tighter, asymmetric | Advanced |
| 2-Layer Ultra-Thin | Variable | Depends on track plate | Modularity fans |
1. 3-Layer Segmented Core: Crisp & Distinct
Segmented Core is the entry-level mechanical, the classic design.
- Detents: 10 up + 6 down
- Feel: Clear detents, each with distinct "pause"
- Sound: Crisp, direct feedback
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Zirconium, PEI
- Variants: Segmented (base), Segmented-A (optimized), Segmented-B (further refined), Segmented-Magnet (mech + end-magnet latch)
Best for: Beginners, those who prefer clear detents
2. 3-Layer Dense Core: 01's "National Favorite" ⭐Highly Recommended
Dense Core is 01EDC's sales champion, the most popular model.
- Detents: 20 up + 10 down
- Feel: Tighter detents, smooth but not mushy, every click felt
- Sound: Rapid "tick-tick-tick-tick"
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Zirconium, PEI
- Variants: Dense (base), Dense-A (optimized), Dense-B (further refined), Dense-Magnet (mech+mag hybrid)
Why "National Favorite"?
- ✅ Most material options (Steel, Zirc, PEI)
- ✅ Highest sales (market-proven winner)
- ✅ Best resale value (strong secondary demand, holds value)
When in doubt, Dense Core won't let you down.
3. 3-Layer Ultra-Dense Core: Even Tighter
Ultra-Dense Core is for those chasing "ultimate tightness," the advanced tier.
- Detents: More than Dense
- Feel: Asymmetric left/right push, adds playability
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Zirconium, PEI
- Variants: Ultra-Dense-A (smooth, softer detents), Ultra-Dense-B (rhythmic, special cadence)
Best for: Already tried Dense, want even tighter feel
4. 2-Layer Ultra-Thin Core: Swappable Track Plates
Ultra-Thin Core is 01EDC's innovative model, featuring "swappable track plates."
- Structure: 2-layer ultra-thin design, swap track plates for different feels
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Zirconium, PEI
- Track plates: 6 types (Segmented, Dense, Ultra-Dense-A, Ultra-Dense-B, Dense-A, Dense-B)
💡 Buy one core, swap plates for multiple feels—basically 6-in-1.
Best for: Those wanting multiple feels from one core
Which One to Choose?
| You are... | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Beginner, tight budget | 3-Layer Segmented |
| Beginner, unsure preference | 3-Layer Dense (Bestseller, safe bet) |
| Advanced, want tighter | 3-Layer Ultra-Dense |
| Advanced, want variety | 2-Layer Ultra-Thin + multi track plates |
| Collector | Collect the full lineup |
Pure mechanical push cores are 01EDC's flagship product line, forming a complete "density ladder" from Segmented to Dense to Ultra-Dense.
Beginners can start with Segmented and progress to Dense and Ultra-Dense; veterans can choose based on personal preference.
Dense Core as "National Favorite" is 01EDC's market-proven success—when in doubt, Dense is your answer.
Hybrid & Specialty Cores: Twist, Eject, Buckyball
Pure magnetic cores are silent smooth, pure mechanical cores are crispy ticks.
But what if you want mechanical detents AND magnetic snap? Or actions beyond push?
That's where hybrid and specialty cores come in.
Four Special Cores Compared
| Core | Type | Feel | Action | Status | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rotary Core | Trick Mech | Dense push + twist | Push + Twist | Limited | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 3-Layer Rotary | Trick Mech | Dense + twist + mag | 3-Layer + Twist + Mag | In stock | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ejector Core | Eject Mech | Dense + spring snap | Push + Eject | In stock | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Buckyball Core | Hybrid | Dense mech + squishy | Mech + Elastic | In stock/Limited | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
1. Rotary Core: Push + Twist Combo
Rotary Core breaks the "push-only" rule, adding twist action.
- Push direction: Dense mechanical feel
- Twist direction: Independent detents
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Zirconium, PEI
- Action: Pure push, pure twist, or combo moves
⚠️ Note: Large hands may struggle—twist structure demands specific grip, larger hands may need adaptation.
2. 3-Layer Rotary Core: 3-Layer + Twist Combo
3-Layer Rotary Core is Rotary 2.0, combining 3-layer dense with twist detents.
- Push: 3-layer dense tight feel
- Twist: Independent rotary detents
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Zirconium, PEI
- Special: Glue-free hidden magnet slot—magnetic latch function, glue-free install, easier setup
- Action: 3-layer dense + twist + mag latch, triple experience
3. Ejector Core: Dense Mech + Spring Snap
Ejector Core is 01EDC's innovative design, inspired by Naoketeng's Snake Ejector (officially licensed).
- Base feel: Tight mechanical detents
- Feature: Pushing to end triggers "ejector" snap, sharp and satisfying
- Materials: PEI, Stainless Steel+PEI, Zirconium
⚠️ Warning: Do not disassemble! Complex internal structure, hard to reassemble, non-pros should not attempt.
4. Buckyball Core: Dense Mech + Squishy ⭐Recommended
Buckyball Core is 01EDC's collab with Flipoo (officially licensed), merging buckyball squish into sliders.
- Base: Dense mechanical tight feel
- Feature: Buckyball-brought squishy feedback
- Touch: Mechanical detents + elastic bounce
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Zirconium (limited)
Best for: Those wanting mech+elastic dual feedback
5. Inner Ejector Core: 2026 New Drop Teaser
- Drop date: January 2026
- Action: Expected ejector action evolution
- Status: TBD
Which One to Choose?
| You want... | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Trick moves | Rotary Core (basic twist) or 3-Layer Rotary (twist+dense+mag) |
| Ejector snap | Ejector Core |
| Dual feedback | Buckyball Core (mech+elastic dual) |
For beginners, start with basic push cores (Segmented/Dense), confirm interest, then explore these specialty actions.
For veterans, these specialty cores keep things fresh.
Buying Guide for Beginners: How to Pick Your First Core?
After meeting 01EDC's three core families, as a beginner, how do you choose your first core?
There's no single answer, but here's practical guidance to help you decide.
Step 1: Determine Your Preference
Ask yourself one question: Quiet or loud?
| Preference | Recommended Family |
|---|---|
| Quiet, pure magnetic snap feel | Pure Magnetic (Tuning Fork Core) |
| Crisp sounds, rich detents | Pure Mechanical Push (Dense Core) |
| Dual feedback or special actions | Hybrid & Specialty (Buckyball Core) |
Beginner Picks
💰 Tight Budget
3-Layer Segmented
Entry pick
Crisp, distinct
❓ Unsure Preference
3-Layer Dense
Bestseller
Highest sales, safe bet
🤫 Want Quiet
Tuning Fork Core
Silent smooth
Crisp fork ping
Advanced Picks
Already tried basics, want more variety?
| You want... | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Tighter feel | 3-Layer Ultra-Dense (Smooth/Rhythmic) |
| Multi actions | 2-Layer Ultra-Thin (6 swappable track plates) |
| Trick moves | 3-Layer Rotary (push+twist+mag) |
| Ejector snap | Ejector Core (unique spring snap) |
| Dual feedback | Buckyball Core (mech+elastic dual) |
Buying Options Summary
| Option | Who It's For | Suggested Setup |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Shell + 1 Core | Total beginners | Shell + Dense Core bundle |
| 1 Shell + Multi Cores | Confirmed fans | Shell + Dense + Segmented + Tuning Fork |
| Multi Shells + Multi Cores | Enthusiasts/Collectors | Mix shell styles & mechanisms |
💡 Beginner tip: Start with a bundle (shell + one core), don't buy pieces solo. Dense Core is 01's "National Favorite"—start here and you won't regret it.
About 01's Product Strategy
Hot sellers stay in production (Dense, Ultra-Dense), slow movers get discontinued (Magnet Core), niche experiments get limited drops then no restock (Infinity, Rotary).
For newcomers: Don't chase discontinued models, chase current stock.
01EDC drops at least two new cores per year to keep the lineup fresh.
Wrapping Up
Understanding the shell/core split means understanding 01EDC's "One shell, endless feels" core strategy.
It's both a newcomer hurdle and the reason 01 can iterate fast—mechanisms evolve quickly, shells stay timeless.
Hope this guide helps you find your perfect core.
Remember: There's no "best" core, only the right core for you.
Step 4: Are You a Collector or a User?
If you're a user (you'll carry this daily):
→ Get a Dense Core or Segmented Core. They're durable, replaceable, and consistently in stock.
If you're a collector (you want variety and resale value):
→ Get a Dense Core in Zirconium (high resale value) + Tuning Fork (unique) + Ejector or BuckyBall (novelty).
The "Can't Go Wrong" Starter Bundle
If you're paralyzed by choice, just get this:
Shell: Mid-tier material (Stainless Steel or Titanium)
Core: Dense Core (any material)
Total cost: ~\$100-140
This combo gives you:
- The most popular core in the lineup (Dense)
- A shell that's durable and looks good
- A setup that will hold resale value if you decide to sell later
Once you've lived with the Dense Core for a month, you'll know whether you want to explore other cores—or if the Dense is all you need.
FAQ: Your 01EDC Core Questions Answered
Do cores wear out over time?
Mechanical cores will experience a break-in period (usually 1-2 weeks of regular use) where the detents smooth out slightly. After that, they're stable. Magnetic cores don't have moving parts, so they stay consistent indefinitely.
If you abuse a core (drop it repeatedly, get sand/dirt in the mechanism, force it while it's jammed), you can damage it—but under normal use, these things last for years.
Can I buy cores separately, or do I have to buy a bundle?
You can buy cores separately. Most EDC retailers (and 01EDC's official store) sell cores standalone. However, bundles are usually cheaper—you'll save \$10-30 buying a shell + core together versus buying them individually.
What's the difference between Dense, Dense A, and Dense B?
These are iterative refinements of the same core concept:
- Dense: The original
- Dense A: Optimized detent geometry (slightly smoother action)
- Dense B: Further refinement (tighter tolerances, more consistent feedback)
The differences are subtle. If you're a beginner, don't stress about which version—any Dense will blow you away.
Are discontinued cores like the Magnet Core worth hunting down?
Only if you're a completist or you find one cheap on the secondary market. Discontinued cores aren't bad—they're just outclassed by newer designs. The Tuning Fork does everything the Magnet Core did, but better.
I have large hands. Will the Rotary Core work for me?
Probably not comfortably. Multiple users with larger hands (9.5"+ wrist circumference) report that the twist motion on the Rotary Core feels cramped. The 3-Layer Rotary is slightly better, but it's still not ideal.
If hand size is a concern, stick with standard slide-only cores like the Dense or Segmented.
Can I take apart my Ejector Core to see how it works?
NO. Don't do it. Seriously.
The Ejector Core has a complex internal spring mechanism that's extremely difficult to reassemble. Multiple people in the EDC community have permanently broken their Ejector Cores trying to disassemble them.
If you're genuinely curious about the mechanism, watch YouTube teardown videos—don't sacrifice your \$100+ core to curiosity.
What's the deal with the "Magnet" versions (Dense Magnet, Segmented Magnet)?
These are hybrid cores—they use the mechanical detent tracks from the original core, but they add a magnetic catch at one end of the slide. It's a small magnetic "snap" that gives you an extra tactile moment.
Think of it as a mechanical core with a tiny bonus.
Which core has the best resale value?
Dense Core in Zirconium, hands down. It's the most in-demand core on the secondary market because:
- It's the most popular core
- Zirconium is a premium material
- It's consistently in stock (so people know it's "the standard")
If you're worried about future resale, Dense in Zirc is your safest bet.
Do I need to maintain or lubricate cores?
Magnetic cores: No maintenance needed. Just wipe them down if they get dirty.
Mechanical cores: A tiny drop of light machine oil (like sewing machine oil or gun oil) on the ball bearing tracks every 6-12 months will keep them smooth. Don't over-lubricate—too much oil makes them feel "gummy."
Wrapping Up: One Shell, Infinite Feels
Here's the bottom line: 01EDC's shell + core system isn't a gimmick—it's the reason they dominate the premium slider market.
Instead of owning five separate sliders that all look and feel similar, you own one shell in your favorite material, and you swap cores based on mood, environment, or preference.
Want silent magnetic slides for your Monday Zoom calls? Tuning Fork.
Need crispy mechanical detents for deep focus on Friday? Dense Core.
Feeling experimental over the weekend? BuckyBall or Ejector.
One shell. Infinite feels.
The Problem Every New 01EDC Owner Faces
You just dropped \$120 on what's supposed to be one of the best tactile sliders money can buy.
You unbox it. Slide it a few times. It feels... fine? But not mind-blowing. After a week, it's sitting in your desk drawer while you go back to mindlessly clicking your pen.
Sound familiar?
Here's the thing: 90% of the time, it's not the slider that's wrong—it's the core. And most newcomers don't even realize 01EDC sliders work on a modular system until after they've made their first purchase.
This guide exists to save you from that exact mistake. By the end, you'll know exactly which of 01EDC's 12 core types matches your preferences—whether you want dead-silent magnetic slides or the crispiest mechanical detents this side of a Holy Panda switch.
Let's get into it.
