HMX KD200 vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, both the HMX KD200 and the Durock Lupine offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The KD200, renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, provides users with a distinctly audible feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate a more pronounced sound while typing. In contrast, the Durock Lupine showcases a well-engineered design with its innovative two-stage long springs, offering a smooth and consistent weight distribution during keystrokes, followed by a more powerful upward rebound. This feature not only contributes to a satisfying typing feel but also results in a classic clacky sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a lively auditory response without sacrificing smoothness. While the KD200 excels in delivering pronounced acoustics, the Lupine stands out for its balanced response and polished 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Durock Lupine, we see a notable distinction in their top housing constructions. The KD200 features a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This is attributed to nylon's softer composition, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials. Consequently, this characteristic contributes to a sound that is duller and rounder, appealing to users who prefer a more muted auditory response from their mechanical switches. In contrast, the Lupine's top housing is crafted from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic known for delivering a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This crispness is enhanced by polycarbonate's translucence, which makes it particularly suitable for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting, creating an appealing visual experience alongside its auditory output.
Turning to the bottom housing of both switches, there is a significant similarity: both the KD200 and the Lupine employ nylon materials. This shared component means that regardless of the differences in the top housings, both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile from the bottom. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, leading to a round and dulcet typing experience. As such, users can expect consistent auditory feedback upon bottoming out the key, making it a unifying characteristic of both switches. Therefore, while the top housing creates a differing acoustic environment, the bottom housing maintains a harmonious sound quality that enhances the overall typing experience.
Combining the effects of both housing materials, we see how the KD200 and the Durock Lupine provide distinct yet complementary sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of both models ensures that users will experience a rich and rounded sound when the key is fully pressed, while the contrasting top housings shape the overall auditory dynamics of each switch during release. With the KD200 delivering a more muted sound profile and the Lupine offering clarity and brightness, users can choose based on their preference for tactile feedback and sound aesthetics. Thus, even with differences between the top housings, both switches are capable of achieving satisfying results, making them appealing to different segments of the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Lupine has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, but its actuation force is unknown. This suggests that the Lupine might provide a more substantial feel upon pressing, catering to users who favor a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, while the KD200 is the lighter option, the heavier bottom out force of the Lupine might appeal to a different demographic looking for a more tactile feedback. If the actuation force of the Lupine were known, a more direct comparison could be made, but as it stands, the inherent design philosophy behind each switch caters to distinct preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it's evident that they differ, with the KD200 having a travel distance of 3.5 mm and the Lupine at 3.7 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive keypress typical among gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Lupine's travel distance is slightly longer, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing the keys, as a longer distance can provide a more pronounced feedback during typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference: the KD200 for those who lean towards faster actuation or the Lupine for a more traditional and hearty keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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
The sound profile of the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out as the clackiest in the HMX Film switch family, delivering a robust and distinct clacky sound that many enthusiasts find enjoyable. In contrast, the Durock Lupine linear switches offer a more neutral sound, with moderate actuation force and a crisp high-pitched timbre, catering to those who prefer a sharper auditory experience. This means that while the KD200 resonates with a louder and more pronounced clack, the Lupine presents a softer yet clearer sound that can be ideal for various environments, from professional settings to casual use. Ultimately, if you value an auditory feedback style, both switches can provide satisfying experiences, albeit with different sound signatures that will influence your choice based on personal preference.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 does not have specific descriptors provided, so it's uncertain how it compares directly to the Lupine. However, the Lupine switches are characterized by their mild nature, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a broad audience. Their polished finish ensures smooth travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. With the Lupine's two-stage long springs offering consistent weight distribution on the press and a more powerful rebound, they provide a unique tactile sensation that keeps your fingers engaged. Without a direct comparison for the KD200's feel, it's hard to make a definitive call, but the Lupine's qualities suggest it will resonate well with those who enjoy a smooth and pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the HMX KD200 and Durock Lupine linear switches have their unique traits, the KD200 is notable for its clacky sound, while the Lupine appeals with a more neutral and sharp audio profile. The Lupine's feeling is characterized by its mild and polished nature, making it suitable for a wider audience. Without specific information on the feel of the KD200, selecting between these two will primarily depend on your preferences in terms of sound. Whichever you choose, both switches promise engaging typing experiences tailored to different aspects, whether you prefer more auditory feedback or a soft, smooth keystroke.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch depends greatly on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a clackier sound profile, the KD200, with its 50-gram bottom out force, might be your best choice. It offers a fun typing experience, particularly if you're aiming for something that feels lively and responsive. However, if you’re looking for a more balanced typing experience, the Durock Lupine with its medium 62-gram force delivers a refined feel. It’s particularly suited for longer typing sessions due to its mild characteristics and polished finish, which provide a smooth key travel. The neutral sound profile of the Lupine makes it versatile for both home and work environments, while the KD200's high-pitched clacks might be more suitable for those who enjoy an expressive auditory feedback while they type. In essence, consider the KD200 if you crave a more dynamic and engaging sound, and the Lupine if you prioritize smoothness and comfort with a consistent typing experience.
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