Durock Lupine vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine, a linear switch, and the Durock Medium Tactile, a tactile switch, are two popular options worth considering. The Lupine switch is known for its exceptional typing experience, thanks to its two-stage long springs. This design offers consistent weight distribution while pressing down, with a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The resulting sound is a classic clacky profile that some users crave. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch stands out for its unique tactile feedback. Durock has crafted a pronounced yet balanced tactility that keyboard enthusiasts appreciate. Furthermore, it produces a jelly-like sound signature, adding a touch of personality to your typing experience. Both switches offer their distinct advantages, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Durock Medium Tactile both utilize polycarbonate top housings, which results in a similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, its translucency allows for RGB lighting, making it visually appealing. Whether you choose the Lupine or the Medium Tactile, you can expect a clear and resonant sound when releasing the keys.
However, the distinguishing factor between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, while the Medium Tactile also utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, both the Lupine and the Medium Tactile offer a unique typing experience due to the qualities provided by their respective bottom housings.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings of a switch are divided when they differ. When pressing down on either the Lupine or the Medium Tactile, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be more impacted by the polycarbonate top housing. Therefore, while the overall look and typing experience may be similar, the differences in top and bottom housing materials contribute to subtle variations in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force that is unavailable. However, the Durock Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is slightly heavier at medium-heavy.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. For those who prefer a lighter feel, it allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a stronger push feel, opting for switches with heavier forces.
Although the exact actuation force is unknown for both the Lupine and Medium Tactile switches, their similar bottom out forces suggest that the overall typing experience may be comparable. The Lupine is considered slightly lighter with its medium bottom out force, while the Medium Tactile switch offers a slightly heavier feel with its medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and desired typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Medium Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Lupine's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper keystroke experience may lean towards the Medium Tactile with its longer travel distance. It is important to consider personal preferences and the intended use when deciding between the two options. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique travel distances, allowing users to achieve the desired typing experience and comfort level.
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 Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile 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 Durock Lupine linear switch provides a classic clacky sound profile. This means that when you press down on the switch, you will hear a satisfying click sound. On the other hand, the sound of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch has been described as jelly-like. While we don't have specific details about this sound signature, it suggests that the Medium Tactile switch may produce a softer and less pronounced sound when pressed. 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 feel, the Lupine linear switch offers a unique typing experience due to its two-stage long springs. When you press down on the switch, you will feel a consistent weight distribution. On the rebound, the switch provides a more powerful upward movement. This combination of consistent weight and powerful rebound can make typing on the Lupine switches a treat. As for the Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is described as having a pronounced yet balanced tactility. This means that when you press down on the switch, you will feel a noticeable bump or tactile feedback, but it won't be overwhelming. Additionally, both switches are described as having a mild feel, which suggests that they offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Furthermore, the Lupine switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. It's unclear if the Medium Tactile switch shares the same polished characteristics.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile and a unique feel due to its two-stage long springs, while the Medium Tactile switch offers a jelly-like sound signature and a pronounced yet balanced tactility. Both switches are described as having a mild feel, making them suitable for most users. However, without specific information about the sound and feel of the Medium Tactile switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Nevertheless, based on the available information, it seems that using either switch will result in a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Durock Lupine is an excellent choice. Its two-stage long springs provide a satisfying weight distribution when pressing down, and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. You'll also enjoy the classic clacky sound profile that these switches produce. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Medium Tactile is the way to go. It offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. As for sound, the Lupine falls into the neutral category, making it suitable for various purposes. The Medium Tactile's sound description is not provided. In terms of feel, the Lupine offers a mild and polished experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Medium Tactile, on the other hand, provides an accented tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, and may also have a stepped feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific characteristics and sounds that appeal to you.
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