Durock Lupine vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch and are torn between a linear or tactile switch, two options worth considering are the Durock Lupine and the Everglide Oreo. The Lupine, a linear switch, is known for its smooth typing experience, thanks to its two-stage long springs. With these switches, you'll enjoy a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Oreo, a tactile switch, offers a different experience. It features a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. These switches strike a balance between satisfying keystrokes and overall comfort while typing. Moreover, the Oreo produces a subtle and mellow sound profile, setting it apart from the Lupine's clackiness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Durock Lupine and the Everglide Oreo switches are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect to have a similar experience in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Lupine or the Oreo switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable difference between the two switches. The Lupine utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Oreo features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with the qualities of its top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as well.
Consequently, when using these switches, the qualities of the housing materials are spread between the top and bottom. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction allows users to fine-tune their typing experience based on their preference for sound and feedback. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing in the Lupine or the sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Oreo, both switches offer a range of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Lupine is unavailable, while the Oreo requires 45 grams of force for actuation. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Lupine is 62 grams, while the Oreo has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly impact the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Oreo with its 45 gram actuation force and 55 gram bottom out force may be more suitable. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions without significant finger fatigue and is ideal for individuals who frequently use their keyboards for work or extended gaming sessions.
However, some users prefer a stronger, more substantial push feel when typing. For these individuals, the Lupine's actuation force, although unspecified, may provide a heavier and more satisfying keystroke. Additionally, with a bottom out force of 62 grams, the Lupine offers a more pronounced feeling of pressing all the way down, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience.
While the actuation force and bottom out force of the Lupine and Oreo switches differ, they both fall within the medium to medium-light range. Therefore, if weight is the primary consideration, both switches can still provide similar results, albeit with slight variations in the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Lupine and Oreo will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Oreo switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lupine switch. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become more prevalent, particularly favored by gamers who desire faster response times. Choosing the shorter option, in this case the Lupine switch, would provide a more responsive feel. On the other hand, for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the longer travel distance of the Oreo switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and 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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 offers a satisfying typing experience with its two-stage long springs. When pressing down, users will notice a consistent weight distribution, while on the rebound, they will experience a more powerful upward movement. As for sound, these switches produce a classic clacky sound profile, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback while typing.
On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch indulges users in a delightful treat for their fingertips. It features a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. The Oreo switch offers a palatable medium-light tactility, striking the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. When typing on these switches, users will notice a subtle and mellow sound profile, providing a more relaxed auditory experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine provides a clacky sound profile and a consistent weight distribution, while the Oreo offers a more mellow sound and a crisp tactile bump. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences. It's important to note that the sound produced by the switches also depends on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, whether choosing the Lupine or the Oreo, users can expect a pleasurable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine is the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a consistent weight distribution when pressed down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for any typing environment. Additionally, the Lupine switches have a mild feel and a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a subtle, mellow sound profile, the Everglide Oreo is the perfect option. These switches feature a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. The Oreo switches offer a chirpy sound, which adds a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience. In terms of feel, the Oreo switches are accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, and they have a stepped design, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Everglide Oreo depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a linear switch with a clacky sound profile and a polished feel, go for the Lupine. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a mellow sound profile and an accented, stepped feel, the Oreo is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and desired level of tactility when making your decision.
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