Kailh Berry vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Berry and the Durock Lupine are two popular options to consider. The Kailh Berry switch is best known for its hefty typing experience, offering a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when used. It also provides a fairly deep sound profile, categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch stands out for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Its sound profile is described as a classic clacky sound, categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Durock Lupine share similar housing materials, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for the effective use of RGB lighting, making it a practical option for those looking to enhance their keyboard's aesthetics.
However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Berry incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Lupine also utilizes nylon in its bottom housing. This choice of material brings a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both switches. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, which may be preferred by some users.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, users pressing down on either the Berry or Lupine switches will notice the effects of the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing material plays a more prominent role in the sound when the key is released. As both switches have polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a similar sound profile when letting go of keys, providing a consistent experience in this aspect.
In summary, while the Kailh Berry and Durock Lupine share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the choice of material for their bottom housings sets them apart. The Berry incorporates a nylon bottom housing to evoke a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Lupine also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing on either switch's polycarbonate top housing, while the specific characteristics of the bottom housing material will provide slight variations in the overall sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is clear that both switches have unavailable actuation forces. However, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls under the medium-heavy category, while the Lupine switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch as it can significantly impact the typing experience. For those seeking a lighter switch, the Lupine switch may be the preferred choice, as its lower bottom out force allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing might opt for the Berry switch, owing to its heavier bottom out force. This switch provides a more robust and satisfying experience for those who appreciate a stronger tactile response.
Although the specific actuation forces are not provided for either switch, it can be inferred that they are likely to be similar since they are both of the linear switch type. This means that users can expect comparable results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke, regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Berry and Durock Lupine switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive typing or gaming, the Kailh Berry switch, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Durock Lupine switch's slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your personal preference for either a snappy, quick action or a more deliberate, satisfying keystroke.
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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a more mellow, deep, and rich tone. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a slightly high-pitched characteristic. This produces a sharp and crisp sound during key presses, which can be a preference for those who don't like the bass-heavy sound profiles. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is subjective and can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a textured typing experience. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, which some users may prefer for added tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild typing experience. This means that the switch offers a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Lupine switch is described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a textured typing experience, while the Lupine switch offers a neutral sound profile with a slightly high-pitched sound and a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. However, it is worth noting that the Lupine switch may provide a more versatile option for various users due to its moderate actuation force requirement and middle-ground sound and feel qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a heavier typing experience and a deep sound profile, then the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. It has a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy sensation when typing. The Berry switch also offers a textured feel, which some users find preferable due to its noticeable friction. The sound profile of the Berry switch is described as low-pitched and bassy, adding a rich and mellow tone to your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a more gentle typing experience and a classic clacky sound profile, then the Durock Lupine linear switch would be a better fit for you. It has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium and offers a consistent weight distribution when pressing down, followed by a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine switch provides a mild typing experience and a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. Its sound profile is described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch will depend on your personal preferences. Consider whether you prefer a heavier or more gentle typing experience, as well as the sound profile and feel that you find most appealing. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so make sure to assess your needs and make an informed decision based on what suits you best.
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