KTT Laurel vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Laurel and the Durock Lupine are two options that stand out. The Laurel is a medium-light linear switch known for its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, which results in a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, this switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Lupine is also a linear switch, but what sets it apart is its two-stage long springs. Typing on these switches provides a treat, with a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine also offers a classic clacky sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities and advantages, making it important to dive deeper into their specifics to determine which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and the Durock Lupine have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Laurel features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. This is in contrast to the Lupine, which utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The POM top housing of the Laurel provides a unique and pleasing sound experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, offers a clear and resonant sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Laurel's POM bottom housing contributes to its deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Lupine's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to POM. Thus, the bottom housing of each switch impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, with the POM providing a deeper experience and the nylon offering a fuller sound.
Although the top and bottom housings of the KTT Laurel and the Durock Lupine have different materials, both switches aim to deliver a pleasing sound experience. While the materials may create distinct sound profiles, they contribute to the overall uniqueness and quality of each switch. Whether it's the POM or polycarbonate top housing, or the POM or nylon bottom housing, the resulting sound is carefully crafted to provide an enjoyable typing or gaming experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. This lighter actuation force allows for a smoother and more effortless keystroke, making it suitable for longer typing periods or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Lupine's actuation force is currently unknown, but its bottom out force is higher at 62 grams, providing a more substantial push feel. This heavier force may be preferable for individuals seeking a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience. In terms of weight, the Laurel is lighter, while the Lupine is heavier or medium, respectively. Overall, these differences in actuation and bottom out forces offer users the flexibility to choose the option that aligns with their specific preference for typing feedback and typing duration.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you are looking for a more responsive keyboard, the Laurel with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, it is worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper key press, the Lupine with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of key depth or responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch has a classic clacky sound profile. This implies that when pressing the Lupine switches, they will produce a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Lupine switches would be a suitable choice.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy, indicating that it is super responsive. This can be attributed to the longer or dual-staged springs of the switch, enhancing the typing experience and making it feel more alive. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a more mild typing experience. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, offering a gentle feel that will be approachable to most users. Additionally, the Lupine switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile and is snappy in terms of feel, while the Lupine switch produces a classic clacky sound and provides a more mild and polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, one may prefer the bass-heavy and mellow sound of the Laurel or the sharp and crisp sound of the Lupine. Similarly, some users may favor the super responsiveness and liveliness of the Laurel switch, while others may appreciate the approachable feel and smooth key travel of the Lupine switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. If you are seeking similar results to the Laurel or Lupine switches, try to select switches with comparable characteristics such as the same sound profile or similar responsiveness and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-light linear switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel is an excellent choice. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, this switch offers a pleasant typing experience. It also has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a more mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, the Durock Lupine is a great option. Its two-stage long springs provide a unique typing experience that many find enjoyable. The Lupine also has a classic clacky sound profile, which may appeal to those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound.
In terms of sound, the Laurel has a low-pitched profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Meanwhile, the Lupine has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound, the Lupine also offers that option.
In terms of feel, the Laurel is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience that stands in a safe middle-ground. Additionally, the Lupine is also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish and a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Laurel and the Durock Lupine will come down to personal preference. If you prioritize a light and responsive switch with a low-pitched sound, the Laurel is a great option. However, if you prefer a switch with a consistent weight distribution, a more powerful rebound, and a classic clacky sound, the Lupine is worth considering. Consider your typing style, preferences, and desired sound profile when making your decision.
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