Keygeek Keylin vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and Durock Lupine stand out as two impressive linear options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Keygeek Keylin is renowned for its innovative design, utilizing new molds to provide a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. If you're looking for a seamless and quiet keystroke, this switch could be your ideal choice. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switches offer a unique typing experience thanks to their two-stage long springs, which provide a consistent weight distribution on the way down and a more pronounced upward movement on rebound. This results in a distinct clacky sound profile that many typists find enjoyable, appealing to those who appreciate a more tactile auditory feedback while typing. Both switches have their strengths, making them appealing for different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock Lupine, a contrast is evident in their respective top housings. The Keylin uses a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture that produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic is primarily due to nylon's ability to absorb sound, leading to a sound that is more muted and rounded. In stark contrast, the Durock Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, which is significantly stiffer and results in a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its aesthetics, particularly in setups with RGB lighting, allowing the colors to shine through vividly. Thus, the choice of top housing directly impacts the auditory experience of using these switches, with Keylin providing a warmer sound and Lupine producing a brighter tone.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which allows for some commonality in sound characteristics. As nylon is a traditional housing material in the mechanical keyboard community, it contributes similarly to both switches by delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because the softer nature of nylon tends to absorb vibrations and reduce echo, resulting in a muted bottom-out sound. Since the bottom housing plays a crucial role in how the switch feels and sounds when pressed down, it ensures that users of either switch will experience a smoother and more pleasant action when bottoming out.
The combination of different top and bottom housings in these switches ultimately influences the overall typing experience. While the Keygeek Keylin, with its nylon top and bottom, provides a consistent sound profile that is warm and rounded, the Durock Lupine balances its stiffer polycarbonate top with the nylon bottom, creating a unique auditory experience. This pairing results in a switch that feels more responsive when typing but still retains some depth in sound due to the nylon bottom. Users can achieve a harmonious blend of sound profiles depending on their top housing choice, wherein the Keylin offers a cozier auditory feel, while the Lupine caters to those who prefer clarity and resonance.
Weight
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, facilitating extended typing sessions and comfort during long gaming experiences. In contrast, the Durock Lupine's bottom out force stands at 62 grams, indicating a heavier resistance; however, its actuation force remains unspecified. As a result, while we can determine that the Lupine delivers a more substantial push feel with its higher bottom out force, the uncertainty regarding its actuation force suggests it may offer varying experiences depending on the specific requirements of the user. Overall, the Keylin is the lighter switch, ideal for prolonged use, whereas the Lupine is heavier, catering to those who enjoy a firmer sensation during typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, the Keylin measures at 3.6 mm, while the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This indicates that the Keylin switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers or users who prioritize faster response times and a more responsive feel. Conversely, the Lupine, with its longer travel distance, may cater to those who prefer a more pronounced actuation and tactile feedback. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Keylin's marginally shorter distance may feel less abrupt for users aimed at quick key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin 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
In terms of sound, the Keylin linear switch is known for its rich acoustics, producing a pleasant auditory experience that contributes to the overall enjoyment of typing. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a classic clacky sound profile, characterized by a mix of high-pitched tones and a moderate volume. While the Keylin provides a more full-bodied sound, the Lupine's profile might appeal more to users who prefer a sharper, crisper auditory feedback. Ultimately, the sound from both switches can vary based on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, making them versatile options for different environments.
Regarding feel, the Keylin linear switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, ensuring a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Lupine is designed with two-stage long springs that create interesting sensations during key presses. Users can expect a consistent weight distribution when pressing down, followed by a more powerful rebound. The Lupine's mild characteristics make it approachable for both beginners and advanced users, while its polished finish enhances the smoothness and reduces friction during typing. In comparison, while both switches aim for a pleasant typing experience, the Lupine introduces a more dynamic feel that may suit users seeking a more engaging interaction.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and Durock Lupine linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Keylin excels in delivering rich sounds and incredible smoothness, creating a premium typing experience. Conversely, the Lupine's classic clacky sound and nuanced two-stage spring system provide a more playful yet refined typing feel. Choosing between them will largely depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, but either switch promises to enhance the overall typing experience significantly.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between Keygeek Keylin linear switches and Durock Lupine linear switches largely hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force—making typing feel easier and less tiring over extended periods—the Keylin, with its 48 grams, could be your ideal option. It is particularly suited for those who value a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it excellent for long typing sessions or even gaming. In contrast, if you appreciate a more robust feel and a slightly higher bottom-out force of 62 grams, the Lupine switch may be the right fit for you. Its two-stage long springs provide a unique typing experience with balanced weight distribution and a satisfying rebound, combined with a classic clacky sound profile that many users find enjoyable. Additionally, the Lupine’s mild and polished characteristics make it approachable for a wide range of users, whether you're a beginner or an experienced typist. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only what feels comfortable in your fingers but also the acoustic and tactile experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard.
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