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Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Durock Lupine

An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Lupine both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a single-stage spring, providing a medium-heavy actuation. This switch is favored for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making it ideal for users seeking a seamless and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine, also a linear switch, stands out for its two-stage long springs that offer a unique typing sensation with a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile when in use. While the Jupiter Red is described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Lupine is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', 'Polished'. Both switches have their merits, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you determine the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

45g

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

60g

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

Standard

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem material

POM

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Spring steel

Spring

Two-stage long spring

Housing materials

The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Lupine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making these switches visually appealing. In terms of sound, both switches will offer a similar experience with a higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Jupiter Red utilizes nylon, while the Durock Lupine also uses nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Gateron Jupiter Red potentially offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Durock Lupine.

Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Lupine may come down to personal preference in terms of the typing experience. While both switches share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing material may lead to a subtle variation in sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, we see that they both fall within the medium range. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Lupine has an actuation force that is not specified and a bottom out force of 62 grams. In terms of weight, the Jupiter Red is lighter with its lower actuation and bottom out force, making it ideal for those looking for a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the Lupine is slightly heavier, offering a bit more resistance and substantial typing feel for those who prefer a firmer push when typing. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it's evident that the Jupiter Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Lupine's 3.7 mm. The Jupiter Red falls within the more traditional range of travel distances, while the Lupine is on the shorter side. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Lupine, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Jupiter Red. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distance, with the Lupine providing a quicker, snappier feel, and the Jupiter Red offering a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.

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 Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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

Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Lupine linear switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their smooth actuation and moderate sound profiles. The Jupiter Red provides a more neutral sound and feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a slightly higher-pitched sound and a polished feel, also catering to a broad audience looking for a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches are crafted with precision molds and offer consistent keystrokes, making them reliable options for anyone looking for linear switches. Ultimately, whether you choose the Jupiter Red or the Lupine, you can expect a satisfying and consistent typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Durock Lupine linear switch, you should take into account the specific characteristics of each switch. If you are looking for a smoother and more consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a two-stage long spring design for a more powerful upward movement on rebound and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine could be the switch that suits your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you want your typing experience to feel and sound, so be sure to choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences.

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