Durock Black Lotus vs. Durock Lupine

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Durock Lupine. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is best known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, making typing a pleasure. With reduced housing and stem wobble, this switch ensures maximum typing satisfaction. It has a substantial 55g actuation weight, providing a satisfying tactile feedback without being too heavy. Additionally, the unique removable light column in-switch lighting is a standout feature. On the other hand, the Lupine is also a linear switch but offers a different typing experience. It boasts two-stage long springs that deliver a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine provides a classic clacky sound profile, adding a touch of nostalgia to your typing. Ultimately, when choosing between these switches, it's important to consider their unique characteristics and decide which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Durock Lupine Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and Durock Lupine differ in the materials used for their top housings. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Lupine utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. Polycarbonate offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound. Both materials have their advantages, with the modified PC and UPE Blend offering a premium feel and the polycarbonate providing a distinct sound profile. However, if you are looking for a switch with RGB lighting, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine is particularly useful due to its translucency.

In terms of bottom housings, both the Black Lotus and Lupine employ nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether you choose the Black Lotus or Lupine, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Nylon's sound-absorbing properties contribute to a more immersive typing experience that enhances the overall satisfaction of using either switch.

While the top and bottom housings differ between the Durock Black Lotus and the Durock Lupine, it is important to understand the impact they have on the overall switch. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it is the modified PC and UPE Blend of the Black Lotus or the polycarbonate of the Lupine, plays a major role in the sound produced when keys are released. Therefore, depending on your preference for the feel and sound of the keyboard, you can choose a switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The actuation force for the Black Lotus is 55 grams, providing a medium-heavy push feel, while the Lupine's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to determine a direct comparison. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Black Lotus requiring 63.5 grams and the Lupine requiring 62 grams. In terms of weight, the Black Lotus is slightly heavier overall.

Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Lupine to be more suitable as it allows for longer periods of typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel would likely gravitate towards the Black Lotus, which offers a heavier actuation force.

Although the specific actuation force for the Lupine is unknown, it is reasonable to assume that it falls within the medium range, as mentioned. In this case, choosing either switch would provide a similar typing outcome in terms of bottoming out. Ultimately, the decision would come down to personal preference for weight and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, we can see that the Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lupine has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Black Lotus falls into the more traditional range of travel distances at 4 mm, while the Lupine opts for a slightly shallower distance. Nowadays, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Lupine with its shorter travel distance might be the better option for you. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, and for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel while typing, the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance would be the suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Black Lotus and Lupine switches have distinct characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. The Black Lotus is best known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, resulting in a typing experience with minimal resistance and enhanced smoothness. However, the specific sound profile of the Black Lotus is not mentioned in the provided information. On the other hand, the Lupine switches are described as having a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Lupine switches produce a classic clacky sound profile when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.

Considering the available information, the sound of the Black Lotus switch is unknown, while the Lupine switch is described as having a classic clacky sound profile which may indicate a more audible and distinct typing sound. The feel of the Black Lotus switch is described as silky and buttery, emphasizing the smoothness and effortless keystroke experience. The Lupine switch shares a similar mild and polished feel, providing a gentle and refined typing sensation. Both switches fall in the middle-ground zone of comfort and approachability, suitable for users of varying typing preferences and experience levels.

In conclusion, the Black Lotus and Lupine switches offer different qualities but are both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Black Lotus focuses on a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, whereas the Lupine emphasizes a consistent weight distribution and powerful upward movement during typing. While the specific sound profile of the Black Lotus is unknown, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. However, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and performance from both switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silky smooth feel, the Durock Black Lotus would be an excellent choice for you. With its substantial actuation weight, reduced wobble, and in-switch lighting, these switches provide maximum typing pleasure. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a more unique typing experience, the Durock Lupine would be a great option. Its two-stage long springs offer consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, if sound is a priority for you, the Lupine provides a classic clacky sound profile, while the Black Lotus offers a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, but the Black Lotus is also described as silky and buttery. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Durock Lupine Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more