Durock Lupine vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Red, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The Lupine is praised for its linear switches with two-stage long springs, providing a unique typing experience with a consistent weight distribution on keypress and a powerful upward movement on release, accompanied by a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Red from Cherry is known for its slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that is both responsive and satisfying to the ears. While the Lupine is categorized as ['Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', 'Polished'], the MX Red falls under ['Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured']. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Red, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when it comes to bottoming out a key. However, the differences come in the top housing material, with the Lupine using polycarbonate while the MX Red sticks to nylon.
The polycarbonate top housing of the Durock Lupine creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Red's nylon top housing. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. The Lupine's top housing is also translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Red absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their own unique properties, the choice between a sharper sound from polycarbonate or a fuller sound from nylon may come down to personal preference.
Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Red will impact the sound and feel of typing on these switches. The split in qualities between the bottom and top housing means that pressing down on the switch will emphasize the characteristics of the bottom housing, while releasing a key will showcase the qualities of the top housing. Whether you prefer a crisper, higher-pitched sound with the Lupine or a deeper, fuller sound with the MX Red, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch reveals some differences. The Durock Lupine switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is a medium weight, while the actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a lighter touch for keystrokes, although the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Cherry MX Red switch may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Durock Lupine switch could be favored by individuals seeking a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing comfort and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Red linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Lupine may be preferred by gamers for its slightly shorter travel distance which can provide faster response times. On the other hand, the MX Red may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial key press with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of the specific travel distance, users can expect a similar experience in terms of key actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress 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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 and high-pitched profile, giving a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound experience, adding a deep and rich tone to each keystroke. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Lupine offering a sharper tone while the MX Red provides a more bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, striking a balance between gentle keypresses and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. This difference in feel can influence the overall typing experience, with the Lupine offering a more refined and comfortable feel while the MX Red offering a more tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Durock Lupine and Cherry MX Red switches have their own unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a neutral and high-pitched sound with a mild and polished feel from the Lupine, or a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel from the MX Red, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a consistent weight distribution and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine may be the best choice for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel, deeper sound profile, and a more robust typing experience, the Cherry MX Red could be the ideal option. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so make sure to evaluate what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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