Huano Grape Orange vs. Durock Lupine

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and Durock Lupine stand out as two popular linear options, each catering to distinct typing preferences. The Grape Orange switch is renowned for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, which provides an exceptionally effortless typing experience, making it an ideal choice for users who engage in extended typing sessions and crave a smooth, fatigue-free feel. In contrast, the Durock Lupine offers a unique typing sensation thanks to its two-stage long springs, delivering a consistent weight distribution during presses and a noticeably more powerful rebound. Additionally, the Lupine's classic clacky sound profile enhances the tactile feedback, which can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy audible confirmation with each keystroke. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a lighter touch or a more dynamic feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Durock Lupine Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and the Durock Lupine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles. Polycarbonate is recognized for its stiffer composition, resulting in a sound that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. Because both switches are equipped with this material for their top housing, users can expect a clear and resonant acoustic response, enhancing the overall typing experience. Furthermore, the translucence of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting diffusion, making both switches visually appealing under illumination. This similarity in top housing material ensures that both switches will provide an engaging auditory experience when activated.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Grape Orange and the Lupine are made of nylon, a material known for its complementary sound dampening properties. Nylon's softer plastic structure contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more noise compared to harder materials. This is essential for delivering a rounded sound when the switch bottoms out. Since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they maintain a uniform sound quality that is rich and satisfying, despite the differences in their upper profiles. Consequently, both switches will excel in creating a balanced auditory response, with the nylon housing primarily influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.

When considering the combined effects of their housing materials, the Huano Grape Orange and Durock Lupine demonstrate how different elements can work in harmony. The polycarbonate tops create a resonant and high-pitched sound, while the nylon bottoms provide a contrasting depth, allowing for a richer typing experience. Although the materials used in the top and bottom housings are identical across both switches, the resulting dynamics are split between the two, leading to a unique synthesis of sound and feel. Users can expect a similar auditory experience in terms of crunchiness from the tops and fullness from the bottoms, making both switches appealing options for tactile feedback enthusiasts.

Weight

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch differ notably in both actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different user preferences. The Grape Orange features a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which can enhance comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Lupine switch, while lacking a specified actuation force, has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a firmer feel overall. This heavier push could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, while the Grape Orange offers a lighter feel conducive to long-use scenarios, the Lupine provides a heftier resistance that may appeal to those seeking tactile feedback. In summary, the Grape Orange is the lighter switch, whereas the Lupine is the heavier option, with the actuation force of the Lupine remaining unspecified, potentially resulting in a less predictable experience.

Travel distance

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Grape Orange's shorter travel distance may provide quicker actuation, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking rapid response times. In contrast, the Lupine's 3.7 mm travel may offer a more substantial feel when pressed, catering to users who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, those who lean towards responsiveness would likely favor the Grape Orange, whereas individuals who appreciate a fuller key press might opt for the Lupine.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Grape Orange switch tends to be somewhat muted or non-descript, giving it a less intrusive audio profile that makes it well-suited for environments where noise is a concern, such as offices or shared spaces. The Durock Lupine linear switch, on the other hand, exhibits a more pronounced sound signature with a clacky quality, complemented by its neutrality and a high-pitched response when pressed. This clacky characteristic can appeal to users seeking more auditory feedback from their typing experience, although it might be less discreet than the Grape Orange.

When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch is renowned for its ultra-light actuation force of just 40g, offering a noticeably effortless typing experience. This can lead to minimal fatigue during extended use, making it a go-to choice for typists who prioritize comfort. In contrast, the Durock Lupine features a two-stage long spring design that provides a balanced weight distribution through its actuation and noticeably powerful upward rebound. The Lupine's mild and polished quality allows for smooth key travel and refined feel, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of feedback without overwhelming resistance.

In summary, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Grape Orange excels in providing a light and subdued typing experience, the Durock Lupine offers a more dynamic sound and feel, combining a clacky audio profile with a polished, gentle touch. Users will find that either switch can meet their needs, depending on whether they prioritize subtlety and ease of use or feedback and auditory engagement. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference regarding sound and typing dynamics.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a light and effortless typing experience that allows for extended sessions without fatigue, the Grape Orange switch is an excellent option due to its low actuation force of 40 grams and pleasant feel. This makes it particularly suitable if you prioritize speed and lightness for gaming or heavy typing tasks. On the other hand, if you desire a more consistent and dynamic typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Durock Lupine might be the better choice. Its higher bottom-out force of 62 grams provides a more substantial feel and the two-stage long springs offer an effective combination of resistance and rebound that can enhance your gameplay or typing precision. The Lupine's neutral yet mildly clacky sound profile makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a shared workspace. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you value a lighter, effortless experience or a firmer, more tactile feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Durock Lupine Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more