Durock Lupine vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Durock Lupine and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Lupine is a linear switch, known for its two-stage long springs that provide a satisfying typing experience. The weight distribution is consistent when pressing down, and there is a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Not to mention, the classic clacky sound profile adds an extra touch of nostalgia. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch that offers a sharp and distinct tactile bump, perfect for those who prefer a noticeable feedback while typing. The sound produced by these switches is lower-than-average in frequency, deeper than average but not "thocky." Each switch has its own unique characteristics and would appeal to different individuals based on their 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, one noticeable difference is in the top housing. The Lupine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Blueberry employs a POM top housing, which produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted in comparison.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches differ yet again. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Blueberry utilizes a POM bottom housing, which offers a similar deep sound profile to the nylon, being pleasing and slightly muted.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, it is possible to achieve similar results with both switches, particularly in terms of the deep and pleasing sound profiles they offer.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Lupine switch has an unavailable actuation force, making it difficult to determine its exact measurement. In contrast, the Blueberry switch requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, making it lighter in comparison. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Lupine switch requires 62 grams of force, which can be considered medium. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience.
Considering weight as an important factor, the Lupine switch's actuation force is unknown, so it is challenging to determine if it aligns with the preference for a lighter typing experience. However, its medium bottom out force could provide a balance between comfort and responsiveness. Meanwhile, the Blueberry switch's lighter actuation force of 55 grams makes it suitable for those who desire a lighter key press, perfect for extended typing sessions. Additionally, its heavy bottom out force might appeal to users seeking a more pronounced push feel. In summary, the Lupine switch offers a medium bottom out force, whereas the Blueberry switch combines a lighter actuation force with a heavier bottom out force, providing distinct options for a range of typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is clear that the Lupine has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Blueberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lupine falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is preferred by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Blueberry offers a more hearty depth due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you value responsiveness, the Lupine would be the ideal choice, while those who prefer a deeper feel may opt for the Blueberry. Nonetheless, both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback, ensuring a pleasant typing experience.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 provides a classic clacky sound profile. This means that when pressed, the Lupine switch produces a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a lower-than-average sound frequency, with a slightly deeper tone. While the Lupine switch falls into the high-pitched category, producing a sharp and crisp sound, the Blueberry switch is described as low-pitched, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. Being mild, it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness is achieved either through the materials used or through factory lubing, reducing friction and providing a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a snappy and buttery typing experience. The tactile bump in the Blueberry switch is sharp, providing pronounced feedback and making the typing experience feel more alive. It also offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. It's worth mentioning that the Blueberry switch is not described as textured, so it can be assumed to offer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
Taking into account the available information, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. While the Lupine switch provides a clacky sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, the Blueberry switch offers a lower-than-average sound frequency, a snappy and buttery typing experience. Therefore, if you prefer a sharp and crisp sound with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Lupine switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lower tone with pronounced feedback and a more alive typing sensation, the Blueberry switch would be more suitable.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Durock Lupine would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a consistent weight distribution while typing, with a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine has a classic clacky sound profile, which may be appealing if you enjoy that type of sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry would suit your preferences. The Blueberry switches have a very sharp tactile bump, providing a sharp typing feel. They produce a lower-than-average sound frequency, which is a little deeper than average but not overly thocky. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch and the specific characteristics that each switch offers in terms of sound and feel.
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