Durock Lupine vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Lupine and the KTT Phalaenopsis are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and benefits. The Lupine, a linear switch, stands out for its two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, its classic clacky sound profile adds a touch of nostalgia to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, boasts beautiful translucent switches with a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. With a satisfying and discernible tactile bump at 50g tactile force, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience. Choosing between these switches depends on personal preference, but let's explore their characteristics in more detail to help you make the best decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the KTT Phalaenopsis share similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer nature contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them suitable for RGB lighting. Thus, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound quality and visual appeal when using either the Lupine or the Phalaenopsis.
However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Lupine utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being softer than polycarbonate, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of polycarbonate.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role. The impact and sound when bottoming out a key are influenced primarily by the bottom housing. Consequently, users can expect a softer, deeper sound from the Lupine with its nylon bottom housing, and a sharper, crisper sound from the Phalaenopsis with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing material has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, while the Durock Lupine and the KTT Phalaenopsis share polycarbonate top housing, the choice of bottom housing material differentiates their sound profiles. The Lupine's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Overall, users can anticipate a similar aesthetic experience and sound quality with either switch, with the bottom housing material bringing subtle variations to their respective typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Lupine's actuation force is unavailable, while the Phalaenopsis requires 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Lupine puts up a medium resistance of 62 grams, whereas the Phalaenopsis has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Phalaenopsis with its lower actuation force and lighter bottom out force. This allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for tasks like typing at work or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel might opt for the Lupine. With its unknown actuation force, it is difficult to ascertain whether it is lighter or heavier than the Phalaenopsis. However, the Lupine does have a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a stronger push feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine and KTT Phalaenopsis switches have different actuation and bottom out forces. While the Lupine offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis provides a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience with lower forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and duration.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there is a slight difference in length. The Lupine offers a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Phalaenopsis provides a travel distance of 4 mm. Although both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lupine being slightly shorter, the variance may still be noticeable to some users. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Phalaenopsis with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of key responsiveness or depth.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 Durock Lupine linear switch is known for its neutral and high-pitched sound profile. This means that the switch produces a moderate sound with a sharp and crisp tone when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile. This results in a deeper and richer sound with a soft "knock" or a deep "thud" when the key is pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The switch offers a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it approachable to most users as it falls in the safe, middle-ground zone of switch characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as a stepped switch. This means that it has two stages of tactility, offering a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement during the rebound, resulting in a treat to type on. It has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch features a light actuation force, minimizing finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. It provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring a delightful typing experience. It has a bassy and thocky sound profile and feels like a stepped switch.
If you are looking for a linear switch with a classic clacky sound and a consistent weight distribution, the Durock Lupine would be a great choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis is a fantastic option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience. Keep in mind that personal preferences, keyboard board, and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine is an excellent choice. These switches provide a consistent weight distribution when pressed down, followed by a powerful upward movement on the rebound. They offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. Additionally, the Lupine switches have a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a lighter bottom out force and a delightful sound profile, the KTT Phalaenopsis is the way to go. These switches feature a light actuation force and a discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is satisfying. The Phalaenopsis switches offer a bassy sound profile with a deep, rich, and thocky sound when pressed. They also have a stepped feel, providing two-stage tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch suits your typing style and desired experience. Whether you prioritize a consistent weight distribution and clacky sound or effortless typing with minimized finger fatigue and a delightful tactile bump, both switches offer unique advantages.
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