Durock Lupine vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine stands out as a linear switch known for its two-stage long springs, providing a satisfying weight distribution on the press down and a powerful rebound. The classic clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i offers a tactile typing experience, with gentle tactility in each keystroke and a fairly muted sound profile suitable for office environments. While the Lupine offers a more intense typing experience, the Mini i provides a comfortable and quiet option for prolonged use. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Mini i, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch. However, the Lupine stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Mini i differ significantly. The Lupine's polycarbonate top housing offers a translucent appearance, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. This feature adds a visually appealing element to the switch, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. In contrast, the Mini i's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of translucency, which may be a drawback for users who prefer RGB lighting in their setup. Despite this difference, both switches still provide a sturdy housing material that is durable and reliable for prolonged use.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Mini i will ultimately come down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Mini i's nylon top housing. Additionally, the Lupine's translucent polycarbonate top housing offers a visually pleasing element with RGB lighting, whereas the Mini i may not provide the same level of aesthetic customization. Ultimately, users will need to consider their priorities in terms of sound profile, aesthetics, and typing experience when selecting between these two switches.
Weight
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Mini i has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making the Mini i lighter in this aspect. However, the actuation force of the Lupine is listed as None grams, whereas the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams. This indicates that the Lupine may have a lighter touch when triggering a keystroke compared to the Mini i. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the weight of the force required, with lighter weights being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier weights for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, users can expect a lighter actuation force with the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and a lighter bottom out force with the Durock Lupine linear switch.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular among keyboard users, especially gamers looking for faster response times. The Lupine offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feeling. On the other hand, the Mini i's slightly shorter travel distance may provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 it comes to sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a hint of high-pitched crispness upon actuation. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is gentle and suitable for both beginner and advanced users. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, the sound produced by these switches can vary and be further customized to your preference.
In terms of feel, the Lupine linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and a gentle typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, offering a responsive and low-impact typing experience ideal for extended use. The Lupine switch provides a consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, while the Mini i switch delivers a lively feel with a balance of tactile feedback and comfortable resistance.
Overall, both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile and a refined typing experience, the Mini i switch offers a subtle and gentle tactility suitable for quiet professional environments. Whether you prefer linear switches with a more pronounced keypress or tactile switches with a bouncier feel, both options can enhance your typing experience with their distinct characteristics. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a satisfying and comfortable typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a classic clacky sound profile with a unique two-stage spring mechanism, the Lupine linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more subdued sound profile with gentle tactility for a quiet and comfortable typing experience, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
