Durock Lupine vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Black. Both switches fall under the linear category, providing a smooth typing experience without any tactile feedback. The Lupine stands out with its two-stage long springs, offering a consistent weight distribution during key presses and producing a powerful upward rebound. Typing on the Lupine switch also results in a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, Cherry has further perfected the MX Black switches, incorporating their Hyperglide tooling to create a textured smoothness that many users appreciate. The MX Black switch, known for its deep sound profile, provides a more firm and stiff typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Black switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Lupine's translucency makes it ideal for utilizing RGB lighting. In contrast, the MX Black has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
Both the Lupine and MX Black switches have nylon bottom housings. This shared material contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound. The nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound due to its softer nature. Therefore, regardless of whether it is the Lupine or MX Black, the bottom-out sound will have a similar quality.
However, it is important to note that the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Lupine, the polycarbonate top housing will contribute to a distinct sound profile when letting go of a key, whereas the nylon top housing of the MX Black will result in a different sound characteristic. The differences in the top housing materials of these switches contribute to their unique sound outputs and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Lupine switch is unavailable, while the MX Black requires a force of 60 grams to initiate a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Lupine switch has a measurement of 62 grams, which is considered medium, whereas the MX Black requires a heavier force of 80 grams.
Considering the weight of the switches, the Lupine switch appears to be lighter in terms of actuation force as it is unavailable. This lighter actuation force may be suitable for individuals seeking a keyboard that allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the MX Black switch offers a more substantial and stronger push feel due to its heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This can provide a more tactile and responsive typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push force.
In terms of bottoming out, both switches exhibit similar bottom out forces as the Lupine requires 62 grams, which falls within the medium range, while the MX Black demands a heavier force of 80 grams. Therefore, if individuals are looking for a comparable bottom out force, they can achieve similar results with either switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch depends on personal preference. Those who prioritize a lighter actuation force and medium bottoming out force may opt for the Lupine switch, while individuals seeking a heavier actuation force and heavier bottoming out force may prefer the MX Black switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, we can see that the Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances for switches. The Lupine offers a shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the MX Black provides a slightly longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth. So, while the travel distances of these switches differ slightly, both options can deliver similar results depending on the individual's needs.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a classic clacky sound profile. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a sharp and crisp sound. The Lupine switch falls under the neutral category, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch provides a low-pitched sound profile. This creates a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Please note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Lupine switch would be a great choice, while the MX Black switch offers a mellower audio experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a mild typing experience. The switch falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, providing a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. 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, delivering a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as textured. This implies that the switch has noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users. Additionally, the MX Black switch is known to be stiff, meaning it requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. If you favor a smoother and more polished typing experience, the Lupine switch would be a suitable choice. However, if a textured feel and higher actuation force are more to your liking, the MX Black switch may be the way to go.
Considering the available information, the Durock Lupine linear switch differs from the Cherry MX Black linear switch in terms of both sound and feel. The Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile, while the MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Lupine switch delivers a mild typing experience with a polished, smooth finish, while the MX Black switch is textured and requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. It's important to note that individual preferences may vary, so it's recommended to try out different switches to find the one that suits your personal typing style and preferences the best.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine would be a great choice for you. Its two-stage long springs provide a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. In terms of feel, it offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black would be the ideal option. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a textured smoothness that is familiar to many users. The MX Black is described as having a low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Black will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, classic clacky sound, and a mild typing experience, the Lupine is the way to go. However, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, a deep sound profile, and a textured typing experience, the MX Black would be the better choice for you. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so consider your needs and preferences when making your decision.
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