Durock Lupine vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it's evident that each offers unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Lupine stands out for its smooth typing experience with two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution on keypress and an impactful rebound. The classic clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive impresses with its all-POM housings that deliver a resonant, deep sound, coupled with pronounced tactile feedback from the unique design and long pole stem. The sharp and crisp bottom-out of the Olive switch ensures a satisfying tactile and auditory experience during use. Ultimately, choosing between the Lupine and Olive switches will depend on your preference for linear smoothness or tactile feedback. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Bsun Olive differ in their top housing materials. The Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic. In comparison, the Olive's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Olive's POM top housing offers a unique sound experience.
On the other hand, both the Lupine and the Olive have bottom housings made of different materials. The Lupine's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the Olive's POM bottom housing contributes to a deep and relatively muted sound. Despite the difference in materials, both bottom housings offer a pleasant typing experience with unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Bsun Olive provide distinct characteristics to the switches. While the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound profile, the Olive's POM top housing delivers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine provides a fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Olive contributes to a unique sound experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper sound with a clear top housing or a deeper, more muted sound with a POM housing, both switches offer quality typing experiences tailored to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, the Lupine is the lighter option with an actuation force of None grams. On the other hand, the Olive is the heavier option with an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Lupine at 62 grams and the Olive at 65 grams, both falling into the medium to medium-heavy range. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch as it can impact typing comfort and fatigue. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lupine for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier push feel of the Olive for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. The Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Olive, but the difference of 0.3 mm is minimal and may not be noticeable to some users. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, providing a quick and responsive typing experience. If you enjoy a more shallow feel, either switch would be a suitable choice for you.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch delivers a deep and resonant sound due to its all-POM housings, providing a unique auditory experience. The decision between the two would depend on whether you prefer a classic clacky sound like that of the Lupine or a deeper, more resonant sound like that of the Olive.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. It is also described as polished, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is characterized by its accentuated tactile feedback, providing a pronounced and invigorating typing sensation. With a sharp tactile bump and snappy response, the Olive switch offers a more intense tactile experience compared to the Lupine.
Overall, choosing between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch will depend on personal preference. If you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a smoother typing experience, the Lupine may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a deep, resonant sound and a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Olive switch would be the preferred choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a neutral sound profile with moderate actuation force and a consistent typing experience, the Lupine may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a resonant, deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback and a more immersive typing sensation, the Olive switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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