TTC Iron vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch to the Durock Lupine linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Iron is known for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts and daily users alike. On the other hand, the Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs that offer a consistent weight distribution and powerful upward movement, along with a classic clacky sound profile. While the Iron is categorized as easy-to-press and mild, the Lupine is labeled as polished and high-pitched. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Durock Lupine switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different properties. The POM top housing of the Iron creates a deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, giving it an aesthetic edge over the POM top housing of the Iron.
In terms of the bottom housing, the POM housing of the Iron also produces a deep and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the POM material. This difference in sound profiles between the bottom housings of the two switches further highlights the contrast between the housing materials of the Iron and the Lupine.
While the housing materials of the TTC Iron and Durock Lupine offer distinct sound profiles, the impact of each housing material on the overall sound of the switch is apparent. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch, showcasing the importance of housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Iron switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and easy typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine switch is heavier, with an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams, giving a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Iron switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may favor the Lupine switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Lupine, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may prefer the Iron. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users, and both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience overall.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Iron linear switch is known for its distinct clacky sound profile, which adds a satisfying auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch also offers a classic clacky sound, making it a pleasant option for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp typing experience. Both switches fall under the neutral sound descriptor, meaning they have a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments. As such, users can expect similar sound experiences from both switches, with slight variations depending on their choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, providing a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. In contrast, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that caters to a wide range of users. Additionally, the Lupine switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing sensation. While the feel of these switches may vary slightly, both offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience that can appeal to enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
In conclusion, both the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch have their unique characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. The Iron switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, while the Lupine switch offers a classic clacky sound and a polished, mild typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a comparable level of satisfaction from both switches, with subtle differences that cater to individual preferences. It ultimately comes down to personal taste and typing style when choosing between these two exceptional linear switches in the mechanical keyboard realm.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Iron linear switch or the Durock Lupine linear switch, think about your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a clacky sound profile with easy-to-press characteristics, then the TTC Iron switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams and a neutral sound profile with a polished feel, the Durock Lupine switch could be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preferences, and priorities to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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