Gateron Ink Red vs. Durock Lupine

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options to consider. Two popular choices are the Gateron Ink Red, a linear switch, and the Durock Lupine, also a linear switch. The Gateron Ink Red is best known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. With its satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy clacky sound profile, typing on the Ink Reds is effortless. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs, offering a unique typing experience. The consistent weight distribution when pressing down and the powerful upward movement on the rebound make typing on the Lupine a true delight. While both switches exhibit neutral and polished characteristics, the Lupine has a slightly higher-pitched sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Durock Lupine Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Lupine switches exhibit both similarities and differences. Starting with the top housing, the Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. Similarly, the Lupine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials contribute to a satisfying clacky sound, although polycarbonate is especially advantageous if RGB lighting is involved due to its translucency.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Red retains its proprietary INK blend, which again produces a pointed and high-pitched sound. Conversely, the Lupine employs a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound. Nylon's softer nature creates a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the relatively stiffer proprietary INK blend used in the Ink Red's bottom housing.

When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Although the specific housing materials differ between the Gateron Ink Red and Durock Lupine, the underlying principles remain the same. Similar results can be achieved in terms of sound and feel, with the Ink Red offering a clacky sound while the Lupine provides a crisper and fuller sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch to the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the exact actuation force of the Lupine is unavailable, but its bottom out force is 62 grams, also categorizing it as a medium-weight switch.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Red may be the better option as it requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. This lighter weight can be advantageous during long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Similarly, the Lupine can provide a similar result in terms of actuation force, although the exact measurement is unknown.

However, for individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience, a switch with a heavier force might be preferable. In this case, both the Ink Red and the Lupine offer comparable bottom out forces, with the Ink Red being slightly lighter at 60 grams compared to the Lupine's 62 grams.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Lupine will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a medium-weight option suitable for a range of typing needs. Whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial feel, these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches offer a comfortable travel distance that falls within the traditional range. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the Lupine switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on keys might favor the Ink Red switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. However, both switches offer reliable performance and a satisfying key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Lupine switches, both are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. The Ink Red is known for its crispy and clacky sound profile, while the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Ink Red switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It falls into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Ink Red has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Lupine switch also falls into the mild category and is polished, delivering a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users.

Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Ink Red and Durock Lupine switches have their own distinctive qualities. The Ink Red is best known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. It offers a satisfyingly smooth feel and a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Lupine features two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution during key press and a more powerful upward movement during rebound. Its sound profile is described as classic clacky. While both switches have a neutral sound profile and fall into the mild category in terms of feel, the Ink Red offers a bit more variety in terms of sound with the option for a chirpy switch, while the Lupine offers a more unique feel with its two-stage long springs. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing style may lean towards the Ink Red, while those who enjoy a more unique feel and sound may opt for the Lupine. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps to truly determine the best fit for an individual newcomer.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing style and value smoothness and a crispy sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the way to go. With its lower actuation force and satisfyingly smooth feel, typing on the Ink Reds will be effortless and enjoyable. Additionally, the neutral and chirpy sound profile adds a unique touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, the Durock Lupine linear switch is the better choice. The Lupine's two-stage long springs provide a treat to type on and the classic clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. Both switches have a moderate force requirement and a high-quality finish, ensuring that they are suitable for most typing purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Lupine comes down to your personal preference for typing style and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Durock Lupine Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more