TTC Honey vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Honey and the Durock Lupine. The TTC Honey is widely recognized for its distinct smooth and creamy feel, providing a delightful typing experience. Additionally, users can enjoy a deep and pleasant sound profile while using these switches. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine stands out for its unique two-stage long springs, resulting in a consistent weight distribution while pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine also produces a classic clacky sound profile. Although these general pointers provide a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, exploring further into the specific characteristics will enable you to make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Honey and Durock Lupine switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing makes it particularly beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Honey and Lupine switches will provide similar results in terms of sound characteristics and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Honey switch features a polycarbonate material while the Lupine switch incorporates nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey switch contributes to the overall sound profile, but its impact is more evident in the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a key. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Lupine switch.
In summary, both the Honey and Lupine switches boast polycarbonate top housings, resulting in similar sound characteristics. However, their differences lie in the bottom housing material, where the Honey switch's polycarbonate impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the Lupine switch's nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding the role of each housing material can help users decide which switch better suits their typing preferences and desired sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Honey linear switch has a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams, meaning that only a gentle touch is needed to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Durock Lupine switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine a direct comparison. However, it is worth noting that the bottom out force of the Honey switch is 50 grams, which is also considered light. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a slightly heavier touch required for a full keystroke. This contrast in bottom out forces suggests that the Lupine switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, individual preferences for typing experience and duration may guide the choice between these two switches, as weight plays a significant role. Opting for the lighter TTC Honey switch allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the heavier Durock Lupine switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference. The Honey switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Lupine switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Though the difference may seem minuscule, it is worth noting. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances. Typically, a traditional travel distance would be around 4.0mm, while a shallow travel distance would be around 3.0mm. However, as shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, gamers, in particular, prefer them for faster response times. So, if you are seeking a highly responsive switch, the Lupine with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel abrupt and prefer a deeper keystroke. If you fall into this category, the Honey switch with its slightly longer travel distance may suit your preferences better.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 TTC Honey switch provides a deep and pleasant sound profile. While not completely silent, these switches offer a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch is described as having a classic clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making it a great choice for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey switch is known for its smooth and creamy typing experience. These switches offer a silky sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with ease. They can be described as creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch provides a more gentle typing experience, with a mild feel that is approachable to most users. It also offers a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches provide a refined feel, ensuring a sleek typing experience.
Based on the available information, the TTC Honey switch and the Durock Lupine switch differ in their sound and feel characteristics. The TTC Honey switch offers a deep and pleasant sound profile with a smooth and creamy typing experience, while the Durock Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile with a more gentle typing feel. However, it is important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch. Some individuals may prefer the subdued and creamy sound and feel of the Honey switch, while others may prefer the higher-pitched clacky sound and more gentle feel of the Lupine switch. Therefore, it is recommended to try out different switches and consider factors such as typing style and environment to determine the best switch for individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch is an excellent choice for you. These switches have a light bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a comfortable typing feel. The Honey switches are best known for their smooth and creamy feel, giving you a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys effortlessly. The subdued sound profile of the Honey switch offers a more subtle and dampened sound when pressed. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a two-stage long spring for a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful rebound, the Durock Lupine linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, the Lupine switch offers a medium typing feel. These switches produce a classic clacky sound profile, which some may find satisfying. Overall, the Lupine switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, suitable for most users. So, depending on your preferences for weight, feel, and sound, you can choose between the TTC Honey and Durock Lupine switches to enhance your typing experience.
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