Bsun Cliff vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a pivotal role in enhancing the typing experience. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch is celebrated for its medium tactility, which offers a satisfying sensation during keypresses accompanied by a crisp sound signature—ideal for those who enjoy feedback while typing. Conversely, the Durock Lupine linear switch presents a different experience; known for its two-stage long springs, it delivers a consistent weight distribution when pressed and a pronounced upward rebound, creating a smooth and fluid typing motion. The Lupine's sound profile is characterized as classic and clacky, appealing to users who favor quieter, uninterrupted typing. While the Cliff switch caters to those looking for tactile feedback, the Lupine is perfect for typists who prioritize a seamless action. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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 Bsun Cliff and Durock Lupine switches showcase similar housing materials that contribute to their overall acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. Both models feature a polycarbonate top housing, which significantly influences the sound produced when keys are pressed and released. This material's stiffer composition allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound, resulting in a crisper and more resonant auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances visual aesthetics, particularly when RGB lighting is utilized, making both switches equally appealing for those interested in illuminated setups. Consequently, users can expect a consistent sound profile attributed to the polycarbonate top housing in both models.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Cliff and Lupine switches share the classic nylon material, which brings a distinctively different auditory quality to the switches. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which help absorb sound and lead to a deeper and fuller overall sound profile. This absorption results in a more muted and rounded sound during key presses, allowing for a more pleasing tactile response when bottoming out. As both switches employ this classic switch housing material, users will experience a rich and warm sound quality that enhances the typing experience in both cases.
When considering the combined effects of these materials, it's essential to acknowledge the interplay between the top and bottom housings. While the polycarbonate top contributes to the high-end frequencies when keys are released, the nylon bottom creates a foundation of deeper tones during the act of typing. Thus, both the Bsun Cliff and Durock Lupine switches, despite coming from different brands, will deliver similar sound profiles and tactile feedback due to the compatibility of their materials. Users will appreciate the balanced sound signature that arises from this thoughtful material selection, creating an enjoyable typing experience regardless of which switch model they opt for.
Weight
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff switch features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a lighter touch, which is ideal for longer typing sessions at work or during gaming. In contrast, the Lupine switch has an unspecified actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This indicates a more substantial resistance when fully pressed down, which may appeal to users who enjoy a firmer push feel and the tactile feedback it provides. Overall, the Cliff switch is the lighter option, whereas the Lupine is heavier, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, we note that the Cliff has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lupine measures at 3.7 mm. This means that the Lupine switch has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper keystroke feel, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. Conversely, if responsiveness is your priority, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Cliff may be more advantageous, as it allows for quicker key presses suited for fast-paced gaming. In summary, while both switches offer a relatively close travel distance, the Durock Lupine stands out for those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch has a crisp sound signature that enhances the typing experience, making each keystroke feel satisfying and audible. This clear audio feedback is attuned to tactile switches, resonating well with those who enjoy a defined aural response as they type. In contrast, the Durock Lupine linear switch produces a classic clacky sound profile characterized by a neutral yet high-pitched tone. This means that while the Cliff provides a sharp vocal quality, the Lupine’s sound blends a moderate actuation force with a vibrancy that caters well to both beginner and advanced typists, ensuring versatility in different environments.
When discussing feel, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, which allows for a distinctive and engaging typing sensation without being overly harsh. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch is described as mild yet polished, providing users with a gentle typing experience that doesn’t overwhelm the fingers. The Lupine's two-stage springs contribute to a consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward rebound, creating a dynamic feel throughout key presses. Overall, while the Cliff emphasizes tactile feedback and nuance, the Lupine leans towards smooth and refined interactions, catering to those who prefer less resistance during typing.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Cliff stands out with its crisp audio reaction and solid tactility, appealing to those who enjoy pronounced keystroke feedback. Conversely, the Lupine delivers a smooth and polished typing experience, with a balance of sound and feel that suits a wide range of users. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct advantages, enabling newcomers to find the switch that best aligns with their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a lighter typing experience with audible feedback, the Cliff's 45-gram actuation and medium tactility make it an excellent choice, particularly suited for casual typing or gaming, where quick, responsive keystrokes and a satisfying sound profile can enhance your overall experience. The Cliff’s crisp sound signature adds a layer of engagement, making it ideal for environments where some auditory feedback is appreciated. On the other hand, if you seek a more polished, consistent tactile experience with a heavier feel under your fingers, the Lupine linear switch, with its 62-gram bottom-out force, provides just that. This switch is perfect for those who desire a smooth and refined typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky sound profile, making it well-suited for both work and leisurely typing sessions where a touch of personality can shine through. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal style and how you intend to use your keyboard, ensuring an enjoyable and efficient typing experience tailored to your needs.
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