[Dr. Franklin]

The only physical differences between men and elves that were noted by Tolkien is that elf eyes glowed a bit and they were about 6” taller than the average man.
Otherwise, elves and men were indistinguishable when not closely observed

So we all just imagined the pointy Vulcan ears?

[Jonty30]

Tolkien left the idea of elven ears up to the interpretation of the reader.

[Jonty30]

https://middle-earth.xenite.org/do-tolkiens-elves-have-pointy-ears/

Another distinguishing point, according to this website, is that elves had more beautiful voices. However, you’d have to talk to them to know that, but it was unlikely that they’d talk to you if they could help it.

[Bogey78O]

The concept of an elf existed prior to Tolkein. Traditional drawings showed them as small fae like creatures with pointed ears. Sort of like Santa’s elves. Tolkein did something similar with goblins. Used an existing creature of lore and defined it within his world.

If I remember correctly.