KTT Cream Yellow vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Lupine. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a resonant audio feedback, while the lengthened spring adds to the unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a treat to type on with its two-stage long springs. The consistent weight distribution while pressing down and the powerful upward movement on the rebound provide a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, both switches offer a clacky profile, but the Lupine switch is categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
18mm spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Lupine both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to the switches. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will produce similar sound profiles and offer compatibility with RGB lighting due to their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of bottom housings, the Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon material, while the Lupine also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, both the Cream Yellow and the Lupine will provide a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound due to their nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and the bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will primarily showcase the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, releasing a key will highlight the impact of the top housing on the sound produced. Therefore, while the Cream Yellow and the Lupine offer similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the distribution of these qualities may differ slightly depending on the specific housing design of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Cream Yellow is lighter with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, both falling within the medium range. On the other hand, the Lupine's actuation force is unknown, but it has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, also falling within the medium category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cream Yellow would be the preferred choice due to its slightly lighter actuation and bottom out forces. This can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extensive gaming sessions, as it can help reduce fatigue. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience that requires a stronger push feel, the Lupine with its heavier bottom out force may be a better fit.
It's worth noting that without the specific information on the Lupine's actuation force, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of actuation forces. However, based on the similarity in the bottom out forces being medium, it can be inferred that the Cream Yellow and the Lupine may provide somewhat similar results in terms of the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired level of resistance during typing.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the traditional range being around 4.0 mm.
For those who prioritize fast response times, the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow may be preferred. Gamers, for example, often opt for switches with shorter travel distances to ensure quicker input recognition. On the other hand, some users may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on keys. In such cases, the Lupine with its longer travel distance may be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, this switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Lupine switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. However, it also has a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the Lupine switch might be a better choice for you. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch provides a uniquely bouncy typing experience. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. Pressing down on these switches gives a lively feel with a noticeable rebound. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a mild typing experience with more gentle feedback. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Lupine switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Cream Yellow switch stands out for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. It offers a unique typing experience with resonant audio feedback and a lively rebound. On the other hand, the Lupine switch provides a more neutral sound profile with a high-pitched characteristic. It also offers a mild typing experience with polished features for smooth key travel. If you prefer a sharp and bright sound with a bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a suitable option. However, if you prefer a moderately pitched sound with a mild and polished typing experience, the Lupine switch would be a good choice.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a switch with a distinctive clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Cream Yellow's shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring all contribute to its unique sound and feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Durock Lupine linear switch would be a great option. The Lupine's two-stage long springs provide consistent weight distribution when pressed down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine offers a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so it comes down to personal preference when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Lupine.
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