Durock Lupine vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Durock Lupine and the KTT Orange switches. Both switches fall in the linear category, providing a smooth typing experience without the tactile feedback of a click or bump. The Lupine is known for its two-stage long springs, which offer a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a powerful upward rebound movement. It also produces a classic clacky sound profile that many enthusiasts love. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches offer a bouncy type feel due to their 22mm long spring. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vibrant orange nylon bottom housing, these switches provide a slick and frictionless typing experience. The Orange switches are also known for their low-pitched sound profile and excellent factory-lubing, ensuring a refined and fluid key travel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the KTT Orange both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a precise and defined typing experience. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be showcased effectively, adding an aesthetic appeal. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting performance when using either the Lupine or the Orange.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, while the Orange opts for polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, polycarbonate's stiffness in the Orange's bottom housing contributes to a more pronounced and clear sound profile. This divergence in material choice translates to differences in the overall typing experience between the two switches. While the Lupine offers a slightly duller and rounder sound, the Orange provides a sharper and more resonant bottom-out sound.
In terms of function, the bottom housing material of a switch influences the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing a key. Hence, with the Lupine having a nylon bottom housing and a polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a typing experience that emphasizes a softer and rounder sound during key press and a sharp and crisp sound upon key release. Similarly, the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing and top housing will result in a more clear and resonant bottom-out sound and a defined sound profile upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, the first noticeable difference is in their actuation forces. Unfortunately, the actuation force of the Lupine switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare it to the 46 grams required for the Orange switch. However, both switches fall within the medium force range, indicating a moderate amount of pressure needed to trigger a keystroke.
Moving on to the bottom out force, we find that the Lupine switch requires 62 grams of force while the Orange switch requires 53 grams. This suggests that the Lupine switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Orange switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience.
Considering the importance of weight in switches, it is worth noting that lighter switches can provide a more comfortable typing experience for prolonged periods, making them ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for switches with heavier forces.
In summary, while the specific actuation force of the Durock Lupine switch is unknown, it can be inferred that both switches have similar actuation forces within the medium range. However, the Lupine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Orange switch's 53 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Lupine offers a slightly deeper key press experience. The Orange, on the other hand, provides a slightly shallower press.
The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and specific needs. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times during intense gameplay. In this case, the Orange switch might be the more suitable option. On the other hand, some users may find short travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. If a more hearty key press experience is desired, the Lupine with its slightly longer travel distance could be the better choice.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Lupine and the KTT Orange linear switches offer shorter travel distances, they differ in terms of depth. The Lupine provides a deeper key press at 3.7 mm, while the Orange offers a slightly shallower press at 3.5 mm. Consider your preferences and requirements for a responsive or more substantial typing experience when making a decision between the two.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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
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, resulting in a satisfying and comfortable typing sensation. On the rebound, there is a more powerful upward movement, giving users a sense of springiness. In terms of sound, the Lupine switch produces a classic clacky sound profile, which many users find enjoyable and nostalgic.
On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a different typing experience. These switches feature a 22mm long spring that provides a bouncy type feel when typing. The switches have a polycarbonate milky top housing, a long pole POM stem, and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing. This combination of materials creates a slick and frictionless typing experience, allowing for smooth and effortless key travel. The Orange switch also has a low-pitched sound profile, which is bass-heavy and mellow, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Comparing the two switches, the Lupine provides a more consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound, resulting in a unique typing sensation. The sound profile of the Lupine is described as neutral or high-pitched, depending on personal preference. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, with a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches offer different qualities and it ultimately depends on individual preferences.
Overall, the Durock Lupine and KTT Orange switches provide distinct typing experiences for users. The Lupine offers a more consistent weight distribution with a powerful rebound, while the Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The sound profiles also differ, with the Lupine having a classic clacky sound and the Orange having a low-pitched tone. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the KTT Orange switches would be a suitable choice. These switches provide a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, thanks to their long spring and excellent factory-lubing. The low-pitched sound profile of the Orange switches offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, which may be preferred by those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile, the Durock Lupine switches are a great option. The Lupine switches offer a consistent weight distribution when pressed down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. With its mild and polished characteristics, the Lupine switches provide a safe middle-ground typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, both the Durock Lupine and KTT Orange switches have their unique features and advantages. The decision between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and overall feel when making your choice.
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