KTT Lightning vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular linear switches worth comparing and contrasting are the KTT Lightning and the Durock Lupine. The KTT Lightnings are renowned for their speed, making them the perfect choice for competitive gamers where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. Typing on these switches provides a smooth and slick feel accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs, delivering a delightful typing experience. Its weight distribution feels consistent when pressed down, while the rebound offers a more powerful upward movement. The Lupine also produces a classic clacky sound when used. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning and the Durock Lupine both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This choice of material creates a similar effect in terms of sound profile, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, which is especially advantageous for switches that feature a clear housing and intend to use RGB lighting. Visually, both the Lightning and the Lupine offer the translucency of polycarbonate, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In contrast, the housing material used for the bottom housing of each switch differs. The Lightning incorporates nylon whereas the Lupine opts for the same classic switch housing material. This variation in materials impacts the sound profile when pressing down on the switches. Due to the softer nature of nylon, typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Lupine's classic switch housing material contributes to a different typing experience.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the key switch. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a major role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although the KTT Lightning and Durock Lupine share the usage of polycarbonate for their top housings, the difference in bottom housing material leads to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are notable differences. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, a relatively light force required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the exact actuation force of the Lupine switch is unknown. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Lightning requires 50 grams of force to fully press down, providing a relatively light typing experience overall. On the other hand, the Lupine switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a medium level of resistance when fully pressed.
Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes apparent that the Lightning switch is lighter compared to the Lupine switch. This lightweight nature is beneficial for individuals who prefer extended typing sessions or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for comfortable and fatigue-free usage. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Lupine switch may be a preferable choice due to its heavier bottom out force.
In terms of actuation force, it is important to note that the exact value for the Lupine switch is not provided. Therefore, it is difficult to accurately compare this aspect between the two switches. However, in cases where the actuation forces of the switches are the same or similar, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of responsiveness and triggering keystrokes.
To summarize, the KTT Lightning linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Durock Lupine linear switch. The Lightning switch offers a lighter and potentially faster typing experience, while the Lupine switch provides a medium level of resistance, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 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 have become more prevalent in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Lightning switch with its slightly shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a bit more depth. In that case, the Lupine switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Lightning and Durock Lupine linear switches, it's clear that they both have a clacky sound profile. The Lightning switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Lupine switch has a more neutral sound profile, characterized as sharp and crisp. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the Lupine switch might be a better choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lightning switch offers a subtle typing experience with gentle resistance. It is not as featherlight as some other switches but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the switch provides a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Lupine switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It also features a polished finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning and Durock Lupine linear switches share some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a clacky sound profile, although the Lightning switch is described as being high-pitched and potentially chirpy, while the Lupine switch has a more neutral and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished finish for smooth and refined typing experiences, with the Lightning switch being described as subtle and the Lupine switch being described as mild. While they may provide slightly different experiences, both switches can be suitable for various typing preferences and purposes.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values speed and precise keystrokes, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches are designed for situations where every millisecond counts, making them perfect for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, they offer a light and responsive typing experience. The Lightning switches also provide a slick type feel and produce a clacky sound profile, adding to the overall tactile experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced typing experience with a bit more weight behind each keystroke, the Durock Lupine linear switch would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, they offer a medium weight feel that many find comfortable and satisfying for extended typing sessions. The Lupine switches are known for their two-stage long springs, which provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This combination creates a unique typing feel that many enthusiasts appreciate. Additionally, Lupine switches produce a classic clacky sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience.
In summary, the KTT Lightning switches are perfect for those seeking speed and precision, while the Durock Lupine switches are ideal for individuals who prefer a balanced and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing tasks. With the information provided, you can confidently make a decision based on the sound and feel characteristics that align with your preferences. Happy typing!
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