Bsun Kiki Red vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Durock Lupine linear switch, it becomes evident that each switch offers a unique typing experience worth considering. The Kiki Reds from BSUN are praised for their finely-tuned balance of high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. They feature all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, along with medium-light weighting for a subtle tactile experience. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switches stand out for their two-stage long springs, providing consistent weight distribution when pressed and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, accompanied by a classic clacky sound profile. While the Kiki Red switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Lupine switch is characterized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Durock Lupine offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Lupine's housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile.
While the Kiki Red and the Lupine both offer unique sound profiles, the materials used in their housing play a significant role in shaping the typing experience. The POM housing of the Kiki Red provides a pleasing and unique sound that is more on the subdued side, while the polycarbonate housing of the Lupine offers a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing material is felt more during bottom-out, affecting the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. This contrasts with the impact of the top housing material, which influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Kiki Red and the Durock Lupine ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing experience. While the Kiki Red offers a deeper and more muted sound profile with its POM housing, the Lupine provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Lupine also contributes to a fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red. Whether one prefers a softer or stiffer plastic for their switch housing, both options offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Durock Lupine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Kiki Red is 50 grams, lighter than the Lupine's 62-gram bottom out force. This means that the Kiki Red will provide a lighter typing experience overall. Lighter switches like the Kiki Red are ideal for those who prefer typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Kiki Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for their quicker response times. However, some users may find the Lupine's slightly longer travel distance to provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Kiki Red linear switch offers a clacky sound profile that is sharp, snappy, and comfortably high-pitched. This provides a unique auditory feedback experience for users who enjoy a subtle yet distinct sound when typing. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch produces a classic clacky sound, providing a more neutral and moderate sound profile overall. While both switches offer an enjoyable sound experience, the Kiki Red leans towards a higher-pitched sound compared to the Lupine.
In terms of feel, the Kiki Red linear switch provides a creamy and frictionless typing experience due to its smoothness during actuation. The use of lubricated materials and a polished finish contribute to the overall refined feel of these switches. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that minimizes friction during key presses. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Kiki Red excels in offering a silky and snappy feel that enhances the overall tactile feedback for users.
Overall, the Bsun Kiki Red and Durock Lupine linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiki Red excels in providing a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, along with a creamy and frictionless typing experience that appeals to users looking for a refined and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Lupine offers a more neutral and classic clacky sound, coupled with a mild and polished feel that caters to a broader range of users who prefer a moderate typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy, frictionless feel, the Kiki Reds may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a neutral sound profile with a hint of high-pitched tones, and a mild, polished feel, the Lupine switches could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch.
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