Durock Lupine vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer different features and experiences. The Lupine is praised for its two-stage long springs that provide a unique typing experience with consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound movement. In terms of sound, users can expect a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Miaowu stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to KTT's latest molds and the use of POK in its stem. While the Lupine is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', the Miaowu is characterized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal depending on the user's preferences, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the KTT Miaowu both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Lupine and the Miaowu differ in their bottom housing material, with the Lupine featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Miaowu also employing a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Lupine and the Miaowu share polycarbonate top housing, their nylon bottom housing sets them apart. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing material bring a unique sound and feel to each switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more noticeable. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Durock Lupine and the KTT Miaowu contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, their differences lie in their nylon bottom housings. The Lupine and the Miaowu each feature a unique typing experience due to the absorption and sound properties of their respective bottom housing materials. Understanding how these materials interact with key presses can help enthusiasts choose the switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The Lupine has no specified actuation force, while the Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams, making the Miaowu lighter in this aspect. Additionally, the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is heavier than the Miaowu's bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Lupine a heavier switch overall compared to the Miaowu. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter Miaowu switch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier Lupine switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Lupine offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Miaowu provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Lupine linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch provides a sharp and snappy clacky sound, which may appeal to those who prefer a crisper sound output. It is important to note that the actual sound experience also depends on factors such as the keyboard layout and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Lupine switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a gentle and refined keypress with reduced friction. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback and lively keypress experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in typing style and feel.
Overall, while the Durock Lupine linear switch focuses on a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement during rebound, the KTT Miaowu linear switch highlights enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Experimenting with different switches and combinations with keyboards and keycaps can further customize the typing experience to suit individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more powerful upward movement during keypresses, along with a clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, enhanced stem stability, and a smoother keystroke action with a clacky sound profile, the KTT Miaowu could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style best.
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