Outemu Crystal vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available. Two popular choices for linear switches are the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Lupine. The Outemu Crystal switch offers a unique typing experience with its medium-light weight and elastic feel. Typing on the Crystal switch provides a neutral sound profile, giving a pleasant auditory experience. 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. Users can enjoy a classic clacky sound profile when typing with the Lupine switch. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Lupine switches, while both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, differ in the material of their bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, as it creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is advantageous for those intending to use RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lupine stands out with its nylon construction. Nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. Therefore, typing on the Lupine switch may offer a different auditory experience compared to the Crystal.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches share the characteristic of having a clear housing when polycarbonate is used. This transparent appearance adds a visually appealing element, especially for those interested in showcasing their RGB lighting setup. However, considering the internal composition, the difference lies in the Lupine's bottom housing being made of nylon. This distinction can be seen as a potential advantage for the Lupine, as it may offer a more distinct and unique typing sound compared to the Crystal. However, both switches provide the advantage of polycarbonate in their top housing, ensuring a clear and resonant sound profile.
When pressing down on either switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing material become evident. As mentioned before, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Due to the Lupine's nylon bottom housing, the typing experience on this switch may elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a sharper and crisper sound profile. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing's material takes center stage in influencing the sound produced. Therefore, although the top and bottom housing materials differ for these switches, they both contribute to the overall sound experience in unique ways.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. On the other hand, information regarding the actuation force of the Lupine switch is currently unavailable, but its bottom out force is stated to be 62 grams, which falls into the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to activate a keystroke. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for individuals who spend long periods typing, such as in office or gaming scenarios. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Lupine switch with its heavier bottom out force might be more suitable.
It is important to note that without information on the Lupine switch's actuation force, a direct comparison in this aspect cannot be made. However, if both switches have similar actuation forces, the typing experience in terms of triggering a keystroke would yield similar results. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired force required for a typing experience that is either lighter or heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is clear that the Crystal has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Lupine has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both options fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, with the Crystal being on the longer side and the Lupine being slightly more shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, opting for the Lupine with its shorter travel distance may be the way to go. On the other hand, for those who appreciate a deeper key press, the Crystal's longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a neutral sound profile with no specific descriptors such as chirpy or high-pitched. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch has a classic clacky sound profile. This means that the Lupine will have a sharper and crisper sound when pressed, which some may prefer over the more neutral sound of the Crystal. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Overall, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Crystal would be a good choice, while if you enjoy the classic clacky sound, the Lupine will provide a more satisfying auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Crystal linear switch offers a fairly elastic type feel with a medium-light weight. This results in a unique, linear typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine linear switch is described as having a mild feel, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It is also described as polished, which means it will provide a similar smooth and refined typing experience. Therefore, both switches offer a polished feel and smooth key travel, but the Crystal may provide a slightly more elastic and medium-light weight feel, while the Lupine offers a milder and more approachable feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch has a neutral sound profile and a fairly elastic type feel with medium-light weight, providing a unique and linear typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a classic clacky sound profile and a milder feel, providing a more gentle typing experience. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you prefer the neutral sound and unique feel of the Crystal or the clacky sound and milder feel of the Lupine will depend on your personal preferences. Nonetheless, both switches offer high-quality typing experiences that are sure to satisfy keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switches would be a great choice for you. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and provide a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, the Durock Lupine linear switches are the way to go. Additionally, you can expect a classic clacky sound profile with these switches. In terms of sound, both switches offer a high-pitched option for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound. However, if you want a switch with a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Crystal switches may not be your top choice. In terms of feel, the Crystal switches provide a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Lupine switches, on the other hand, offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preferences in weight, typing experience, sound profile, and key feel.
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