Durock Lupine vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Oil King, both of which are linear switches. The Lupine is widely recognized for its exceptional typing experience, thanks to its two-stage long springs. This design ensures a consistent weight distribution when pressing down, accompanied by a powerful upward movement during rebound. Additionally, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile that many keyboard enthusiasts adore. On the other hand, the Oil King is revered for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of the satisfying snap of a dark chocolate bar. With its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, typing on the Oil King delivers a rich and creamy experience. While these general descriptions provide enticing highlights, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Oil King have contrasting properties that result in different sound profiles. The Lupine's polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This clear and resonant sound is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency. In contrast, the Oil King's nylon top housing, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lupine and the Oil King use nylon. This common choice leads to a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. Nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a more robust and muted sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend in its bottom housing provides a unique characteristic in the form of a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This clacky sound is satisfying to many users.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in sound production. Pressing down on a switch allows you to feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when you release a key. While the Lupine and Oil King may have similar nylon bottom housings, their distinctive top housings result in different sound experiences during both key press and release.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that they have similar actuation forces. The Lupine's actuation force is unavailable, while the Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, requiring a moderate force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium, whereas the Oil King has a bottom out force of 65 grams, leaning towards the medium-heavy range. This means that the Oil King switch has a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed down.
Considering weight and force preferences, those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Lupine as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This lighter feel is also ideal for work settings or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience or a stronger push feel may lean towards the Oil King with its slightly heavier bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with slight variations in their bottom out forces to cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Oil King has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Oil King has a slightly longer travel distance than the Lupine. Both of these distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4 mm being the most common. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Lupine's shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, some people find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the slightly longer travel distance of the Oil King may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
The Durock Lupine linear switch is best known for its two-stage long springs, which provide a unique typing experience. When pressing down on the Lupine switch, users will feel a consistent weight distribution, creating a satisfying keypress. On the rebound, there is a more powerful upward movement, adding to the tactile feedback. In terms of sound, the Lupine switch produces a classic clacky sound profile, which can be described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement, and a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. However, the sound of the Lupine switch can also vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is highly regarded for its buttery smoothness and unique sound profile. When typing on the Oil King, users will experience a smooth and refined typing experience, described as creamy, silky, and buttery. The switch offers exceptional smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In terms of sound, the Oil King produces a low-pitched and bassy sound profile resembling the snapping of a dark chocolate bar. This sound profile adds depth and richness to the typing experience.
Comparing the two switches, the Lupine offers a consistent weight distribution and a clacky sound profile, while the Oil King provides a smooth and refined typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. They both offer unique qualities that can significantly enhance typing satisfaction. However, it is important to note that personal preferences play a significant role in determining which switch is best suited for an individual. Some may prefer the neutral sound and consistent weight distribution of the Lupine, while others may favor the creamy smoothness and low-pitched sound of the Oil King.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine and Gateron Oil King linear switches have distinct subjective qualities that can greatly enhance the typing experience. While the Lupine offers a consistent weight distribution and a clacky sound profile, the Oil King provides a smooth and refined typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. Both switches bring unique characteristics to the table, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a medium bottom out force and enjoy a consistent weight distribution with a more powerful upward movement, while also appreciating a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine linear switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and seek a buttery smooth typing experience with a sound profile resembling a dark chocolate bar snapping, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is the way to go. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a more gentle typing experience, the Lupine is the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, along with a creamy, silky, or buttery typing experience, the Oil King is the better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for weight, sound, and feel.
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