Durock Lupine vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we see two distinct options with unique characteristics. The Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs, offering a consistent weight distribution on the press down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, accompanied by a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red provides a slightly heftier feel similar to the MX Red but operates silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. While the Lupine offers a more high-pitched and polished sound, the MX Silent Red provides a low-pitched and textured typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and appeal depending on individual preferences; 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Cherry MX Silent Red, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile due to their shared bottom housing material.
While the Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, the MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound profile, while nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller sound. The difference in top housing materials between the two switches significantly impacts the sound produced when typing, with the Lupine offering a sharper sound and the MX Silent Red providing a deeper tone.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the bottom and the top of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Lupine offering a crisper sound profile due to its polycarbonate top housing, contrasting with the deeper sound produced by the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is not provided. The difference in actuation force suggests that the MX Silent Red may feel lighter to the touch compared to the Lupine, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience. However, without the bottom out force for the MX Silent Red, it is unclear how the two switches compare in terms of the force required for a full keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.7 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on the keys for both switches. This distance is relatively standard for linear switches and allows for smooth and consistent keystrokes. While other factors such as actuation point and actuation force may vary between the two switches, their travel distance remains the same. Therefore, whether you choose the Durock Lupine or the Cherry MX Silent Red, you can expect to have a consistent typing experience in terms of 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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is designed to be muted and thocky, producing a softer and quieter sound that leans towards a deep and satisfying "thock" or "knock" when pressed. While the Lupine leans towards a more intense and classic mechanical keyboard sound, the MX Silent Red provides a more subdued and noise-sensitive-friendly option.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch is known for its mild and polished characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed, which can create a tactile response during typing. The Lupine provides a balanced and approachable typing feel, while the MX Silent Red offers a bit more feedback through its textured sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who enjoy that additional tactile element.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch both provide excellent options for users seeking linear switches with specific sound and feel preferences. While the Lupine offers a classic clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, the MX Silent Red caters to those in need of a quieter option with a textured typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It's important to consider the overall setup, including the keyboard and keycaps, to achieve the desired sound and feel when using either of these switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prefer a classic clacky sound profile and a consistent weight distribution with a powerful upward rebound, the Lupine may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are in need of a significantly quieter typing experience for noise-sensitive environments, the MX Silent Red would be the better option due to its silent operation. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a more neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the Lupine would suit your preferences, whereas if you prefer a mute, thocky, or low-pitched sound profile and enjoy a textured typing feel, the MX Silent Red may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing environment.
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