Durock Light Tactile vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and Durock Lupine offer distinct advantages depending on your typing preferences. The Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a pleasant contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. With a gentle tactility and soft sound signature, this switch falls into the neutral, mild, polished category. On the other hand, the Lupine linear switches deliver a delightful typing experience thanks to their two-stage long springs. Users will appreciate the consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. In terms of sound, the Lupine switches produce a classic clacky sound profile. Categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, polished, the Lupine offers a unique combination of smoothness and satisfying sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch is best suited for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
A major point of comparison between the Durock Light Tactile and the Durock Lupine is their top housing material, which is made of polycarbonate for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to its stiffness, which produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Light Tactile and Lupine switches will exhibit similar sound characteristics and visual effects when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of their bottom housing material, both the Light Tactile and the Lupine switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material, and its use in these switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike the stiff polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. Since the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, both the Light Tactile and Lupine switches will share similar characteristics when it comes to their nylon bottom housing, creating a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
It is important to note that the combination of different housing materials in a switch can affect the overall sound and feel. While the top housing primarily influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Therefore, even though the Light Tactile and Lupine share the same top housing material, the differences in their bottom housing, namely the softer nylon material, may result in a slight variation in the overall typing experience. However, both switches are designed to enhance the sound of keystrokes, providing users with a satisfying and responsive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Light Tactile switch is 52 grams, providing a medium-heavy push feel to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Lupine switch is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the bottom out force of the Light Tactile switch is 67 grams, indicating a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down. On the other hand, the Lupine switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter.
Considering weight, the Light Tactile switch might be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. This can be advantageous for individuals seeking a tactile switch for tasks that require a bit more force, such as gaming or heavy typing. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as those using the keyboard for work or extended gaming sessions, may lean towards the Lupine switch. While the actuation force of the Lupine switch is unknown, its lighter bottom out force suggests a potential for a smoother and lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Light Tactile switch falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Lupine switch is slightly shallower at 3.7 mm. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Lupine switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and depth to your keystrokes, the Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. It provides a more gentle and jelly-like sound when typing on them, creating an angelic tactility. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch also has a neutral sound profile but with a higher-pitched characteristic. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and crisp clacky sound. Both switches are suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Light Tactile and Lupine switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The feel of these switches is approachable to most users, as their qualities are in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This polished finish can be attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Overall, the Light Tactile and Lupine switches provide a comfortable and refined typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It provides a unique contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch offers a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. It produces a classic clacky sound profile, which some users may prefer. In terms of sound, both switches have a neutral profile, but the Lupine switch also has the option for a higher-pitched sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience and a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, whether you choose the Light Tactile or Lupine switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a gentle and pleasant tactile experience with a softer sound profile, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice for you. Its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature provide a unique typing experience. Additionally, the Light Tactile has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, the Durock Lupine would be an excellent option. Its two-stage long springs provide a satisfying typing experience and produce a classic clacky sound. The Lupine also offers a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different users and environments.
Both switches share similar characteristics in terms of sound and feel. They are described as neutral switches, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. Furthermore, they are categorized as mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Both switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Durock Lupine depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a unique gentle tactility and softer sound, the Light Tactile is the way to go. However, if you prefer a linear switch with consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement, the Lupine is the better choice. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound profile to make an informed decision.
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