Durock Lupine vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and the Haimu Neo White both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lupine, a linear switch, is admired for its two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful rebound movement. With a classic clacky sound profile, it falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Neo White, also a linear switch, boasts a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, creating a distinctive typing feel. The rare use of a Ly stem adds to the smooth actuation, making each keystroke a satisfying experience. The Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Haimu Neo White both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the similarities between the two switches may result in comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to the top housing material.
On the other hand, the Lupine and the Neo White have different bottom housing materials, with the Lupine utilizing a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Neo White also features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to its overall typing experience and sound profile. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material will impact the feel and sound when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials between the Lupine and the Neo White, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience with a focus on sound profile and aesthetics. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing or the softer nylon bottom housing, each material brings its own characteristics to the table for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is clear that both switches have a similar actuation force of None grams. However, the Durock Lupine has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Haimu Neo White, which has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Lupine provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed compared to the Neo White. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neo White may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Lupine may be more suitable for users who prefer a bit more resistance for a more tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The Lupine offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when pressed compared to the Neo White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the feel of the switch when typing or gaming.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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 classic clacky sound profile that is distinct and satisfying. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile that is suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Lupine having a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the Neo White.
In terms of feel, both the Lupine and Neo White switches provide a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. The Lupine switch stands out with its two-stage long springs that offer a unique weight distribution during key presses and rebounds, providing a polished and refined typing experience. Meanwhile, the Neo White switch's use of a Ly stem contributes to a smooth actuation, making each keystroke smooth and satisfying. Both switches fall in the mild category, offering a safe middle-ground typing experience.
Overall, whether you choose the Durock Lupine linear switch or the Haimu Neo White linear switch, you can expect a pleasant typing experience with unique characteristics. The Lupine offers a classic clacky sound profile and a two-stage long spring mechanism, while the Neo White provides a neutral sound profile and a smooth actuation with its Ly stem. Ultimately, both switches offer similar mild typing experiences that cater to a wide range of users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile with a more powerful rebound, the Lupine may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lower bottom out force and a smooth actuation due to the rare use of a Ly stem, the Neo White could be the ideal option. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, making them suitable for most users in various settings. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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