Dareu Aqua vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Durock Lupine both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua is a linear switch renowned for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from others. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch boasts two-stage long springs that offer a consistent weight distribution on the press and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, accompanied by a classic clacky sound profile. While the Aqua is favored for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Lupine is praised for its neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished attributes. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different keyboard users. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Durock Lupine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, these clear housings are ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for light to shine through. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and visual appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Aqua and the Lupine utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer compared to other plastics, which results in it absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, contributing to the overall typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Aqua and the Durock Lupine differ, the qualities of their respective materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials, with the Aqua providing a crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and the Lupine producing a deeper sound with its nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Durock Lupine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Lupine requires 62 grams, giving it a heavier feel compared to the Aqua, which has no specific information available. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Aqua for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Lupine for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Aqua switch falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Lupine switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lupine switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Aqua switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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 Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, adding a unique twist to the typing experience. The Lupine linear switch, on the other hand, offers a more classic clacky sound profile that many users appreciate. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Aqua offering a lighter and more chirpy sound compared to the Lupine's more powerful and high-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound aesthetics.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery attributes, providing a light and responsive typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, delivering a more gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort, with the Aqua emphasizing lightness and effortless typing, while the Lupine focuses on a polished and refined typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to individual preferences for typing resistance and feedback.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound profile, along with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, catering to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Lupine offers a classic clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, providing a more refined typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences for sound and typing feel. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel based on the provided descriptions, but may still find subtle differences that could influence their decision between the two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Aqua switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a moderate actuation force with a two-stage spring design that provides a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful rebound, along with a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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