Durock Lupine vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Lupine and HMX Xinhai are both exceptional linear mechanical keyboard switches each offering their own unique qualities. The Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. This switch also produces a classic clacky sound profile, making it a favorite among typists. On the other hand, the Xinhai showcases a different feel with a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. With a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance, the Xinhai offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the HMX Xinhai have many similarities due to both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for an aesthetically pleasing experience when using these switches. However, the contrast between the two switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Lupine uses nylon for the bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Xinhai also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound experience to the Lupine.
While the top housing of both the Durock Lupine and the HMX Xinhai shares the same polycarbonate material, the difference in their bottom housings offers a unique typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Lupine creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving typists a rounder and duller typing experience. Conversely, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing provides a similar sound experience, allowing for a similar deep and full sound profile. Despite having different bottom housings, the top housing material of polycarbonate ensures a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile when utilizing these switches.
In summary, the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the HMX Xinhai play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the contrast comes in the form of their nylon bottom housings. The Lupine's nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Xinhai offers a similar sound profile with its own nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Lupine has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams, indicating that the Xinhai is lighter in this aspect. On the other hand, the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium, whereas the Xinhai has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it lighter as well. The Lupine provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium bottom out force, while the Xinhai offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a less forceful typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we see that the Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7mm, while the Xinhai has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The Lupine offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when pressing down on the key compared to the Xinhai. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 HMX Xinhai comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 provides a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky sound profile that is sharp, crisp, and percussive. Both switches can deliver satisfying auditory feedback, with the Lupine offering a classic clacky sound and the Xinhai providing a unique blend of softer acoustics and higher-pitched resonance.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Lupine switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, characterized by gentle key presses and smooth key travel. The Lupine's two-stage long springs provide a consistent weight distribution on key press and a powerful upward movement on rebound. Meanwhile, the HMX Xinhai switch gives a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with a lively feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery feel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their own unique touch.
Overall, both the Durock Lupine and HMX Xinhai linear switches have their own strengths in sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a classic clacky sound with a polished typing experience or a clacky sound with a bouncy, creamy feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Lupine linear switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a moderate actuation force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a softer, more sophisticated acoustics profile with a crisp, higher-pitched sound, the Xinhai could be the ideal switch for your typing needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so carefully consider your desired typing experience when making your decision.
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