Durock Lupine vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Lupine and the KTT Mint. Both switches fall under the linear category, providing a smooth keystroke experience, but they differ in several key aspects. The Lupine is celebrated for its two-stage long springs, resulting in a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. It also produces a classic clacky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Mint stands out for its satisfyingly smooth feel, thanks to its long pole stem. Users can expect a poppy thockiness when typing with these switches, accompanied by a light and fleeting type feel. Sound-wise, the Mint offers a low-pitched profile. While these general features of each switch can help inform your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best choose the switch that suits your specific preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and KTT Mint both have polycarbonate top housings, which result in similar effects on sound and aesthetics. The polycarbonate material used in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual experience when using either switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Lupine and Mint differ, with the Lupine featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Mint utilizes the same polycarbonate material. Nylon is known as a classic switch housing material and provides a distinct sound profile. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is relatively softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the Lupine's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a different typing experience compared to the Mint's polycarbonate bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. As both the Lupine and Mint use different bottom housing materials, users can expect variations in the typing experience based on the switch they choose. Conversely, the top housing's impact is more noticeable when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the Lupine and the Mint may depend on personal preferences regarding the bottom-out sound and feel versus the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Lupine switch is not available, while the Mint switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lupine switch requires 62 grams, which is considered medium, whereas the Mint switch requires 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light.
Considering weight, some users prefer a lighter switch to facilitate longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. In this regard, the Mint switch with its actuation force of 45 grams may be more suitable for those looking for a lighter feel. On the other hand, individuals who value a stronger push while typing for a more substantial typing experience might lean towards a switch with a heavier force. In this case, the Lupine switch, with its bottom out force of 62 grams, would be a better option.
It is important to note that without the specific information regarding the actuation force of the Lupine switch, it is difficult to provide a direct comparison, but it is safe to assume that both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation, as they fall within the medium-light to medium range. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer faster response times. However, the Lupine offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Mint. This shorter distance may appeal to gamers looking for an even quicker key press. On the other hand, the Mint's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prioritizes the faster response of a shorter travel distance or the more substantial depth of a 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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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 provides a classic clacky sound profile. This means that when you press down on the keys, you'll hear a sharp and crisp sound. This switch falls into the neutral category, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Like the Lupine, the Mint switch also falls into the neutral category, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both the Lupine and Mint switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Lupine switch is also described as having a polished feel, which indicates a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This could be due to material composition or factory lubrication, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Mint switch is also referred to as polished, indicating a similar smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch offer different sound profiles but similar feel qualities. The Lupine switch produces a classic clacky sound, while the Mint switch offers a low-pitched sound with a poppy thockiness. Both switches provide a mild typing experience with a polished feel, resulting in a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a more bass-heavy tone, both switches fall into the neutral category, making them suitable for various purposes, regardless of your experience level or intended use.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Durock Lupine and KTT Mint are both great options. The Lupine is best known for its two-stage long springs, which provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This switch also has a classic clacky sound profile and offers a neutral sound experience. On the other hand, the Mint is loved for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience and poppy thockiness, thanks to its long pole stem. It has a lighter bottom out force and produces a low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience and have a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Lupine and Mint will depend on your preferences for sound and typing feel.
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