Durock Lupine vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you'll likely come across the Durock Lupine and the Gazzew U4T. While both switches are known for their exceptional performance, they offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Lupine is a linear switch that stands out for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution when typing and a powerful upward movement upon rebound. This switch also offers a classic and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that combines thockiness with sharp tactility. With a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, each keystroke offers both auditory and tactile satisfaction. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Durock Lupine Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Lupine and the Gazzew U4T differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonance of the switch, producing a high-pitched tone. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, commonly known as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend creates a rich and deep sound profile, emphasizing a softer and more mellow tone. While both switches offer distinct acoustic characteristics, they deliver equally satisfying results for users seeking specific sound profiles.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Lupine employs a nylon material, renowned for providing a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softness ensures that it absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic profile. This adds depth and richness to the typing experience when using the Lupine switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T integrates its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. Also referred to as "boba plastic," this material contributes to a profound and resonating sound. The softness of the Gazzew blend enhances the switch's tonal characteristics, delivering a satisfying auditory feedback during typing.

It is worth noting that when a switch features different top and bottom housings, each material brings unique qualities to the overall sound profile. While the bottom housing primarily influences the sound and feel during the bottom-out action, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced upon key release. Thus, users can expect nuanced auditory experiences from both the Lupine and the U4T, depending on their specific preferences and typing style. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer enjoyable and customizable sound profiles to suit various preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of strength. However, the actuation force of both switches is unavailable and unknown. This means that we cannot directly compare their actuation forces.

Considering weight and force preferences, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. This lighter weight allows for easier keystrokes and reduces hand fatigue. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals find satisfaction in a stronger push feel when pressing the keys, which provides a sense of stability and control.

In conclusion, while the bottom out force of the Durock Lupine and the Gazzew U4T switches are the same, the actuation force remains unknown. Therefore, we cannot make a direct comparison in terms of actuation force. However, individuals seeking a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming may find the Durock Lupine to be a suitable option. Meanwhile, those who prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gazzew U4T switch.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In this case, the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of what is considered standard for switch travel distances. However, there is a slight difference between the two, with the Lupine being the shorter of the two switches.

For those who prefer a shorter travel distance, the Lupine would be a suitable choice. A shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who prioritize quicker response times. With a shorter travel distance, keystrokes can be registered faster, allowing for improved performance in games that require quick reactions. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the U4T switch may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for those who prefer a more substantial feel.

Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences. If you prioritize responsiveness and fast keystrokes, the shorter travel distance of the Lupine may be more suitable for you. However, if you enjoy a deeper keystroke with a more pronounced tactile feel, the U4T switch with its slightly longer travel distance could be a better choice. Both switches offer their own advantages and it is important to consider personal preference when making a decision.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Durock Lupine linear switch is best known for its two-stage long springs, which provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This unique spring design contributes to a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile, making each keystroke audible and distinct. The Lupine's sound can be described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, suitable for various typing scenarios. In terms of feel, the Lupine offers a mild typing experience, characterized by a gentle tactile feedback. Additionally, the switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is renowned for its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. It offers an assertive tactile feedback, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The U4T produces a bassy thock sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This switch delivers both auditory and tactile satisfaction to the user.

In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine provides a clacky sound profile with a neutral sound, while the U4T offers a bassy thock sound profile. In terms of feel, the Lupine offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the U4T provides a sharp and tactile feedback. It's important to note that the sound and feel of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine is the way to go. These switches offer a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a bassy 'thock' sound profile, the Gazzew U4T is a great choice. These switches combine sharp tactility with a deep and rich sound, making each keystroke both audibly and tactilely satisfying. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch and the specific sound and feel characteristics that align with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Lupine Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more