Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Raw and the Durock Lupine both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, creating a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel right out of the box. Ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches, the Keygeek Raw offers a textured and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine boasts two-stage long springs for consistent weight distribution while typing and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, accompanied by a classic clacky sound profile. Categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished, the Lupine provides a polished and satisfying typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
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
The Keygeek Raw uses a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, which offers a unique sound profile that is likely to be different from the sharper, higher-pitched sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Durock Lupine. While the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing is known for its clear and resonant sound profile, the Keygeek Raw's blend may provide a distinctively different typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the keyboard that may not be present with the Keygeek Raw.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Keygeek Raw features a UMPE & Si blend, which may offer a different typing feel compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Durock Lupine. The nylon bottom housing of the Lupine is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. This could result in a typing experience that is more muted and rounder compared to the Keygeek Raw's blend, which may provide a sharper and clearer sound when typing on the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and the Durock Lupine will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing may offer a sharper and crisper sound, the Keygeek Raw's blend may provide a different and potentially unique typing experience. Similarly, the different bottom housing materials will impact the overall sound profile and typing feel of each switch, offering users the opportunity to customize their keyboard experience based on their preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that can enhance the overall performance of a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar actuation force of None grams. However, the Keygeek Raw has a lighter bottom out force of 57.5 grams compared to the Lupine's slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the preferred choice due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Durock Lupine with its slightly higher bottom out force. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, providing a balanced typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Durock Lupine linear switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Lupine offers a slightly more extended key press experience compared to the Raw. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Keygeek Raw, while those who prefer a more substantial key press sensation may opt for the Durock Lupine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the overall typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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
In terms of sound, both the Keygeek Raw and the Lupine switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and environments. The Lupine switch, however, also provides a high-pitched option for those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound when typing. When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a textured and mild typing experience, while the Lupine switch provides a polished and mild feel, ensuring smooth key travel with reduced friction. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and versatile typing experience with unique features in sound and feel. Whether you choose the Keygeek Raw or the Lupine switch, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, with slight differences in sound profile and typing experience to suit your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a unique material blend that offers a creamy yet lightweight feel and enjoy hand-lubing switches, the Keygeek Raw may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate linear switches with two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution and a clacky sound profile, the Lupine could be more suitable for your typing preferences. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options for various typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize material blend and hand-lubing capabilities (Keygeek Raw) or two-stage long springs and a clacky sound profile (Lupine). Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and customization preferences.