Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Brown offer distinctly different typing experiences. The Lupine is a linear switch that stands out for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward movement upon release. With its classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine switch offers a satisfying typing experience categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown is a tactile switch known for its precise feedback without any special features. While the Brown switch doesn't have any standout characteristics, it is categorized as providing a comfortable typing experience. If you're looking for a switch that provides a unique tactile feedback, the Outemu Brown might be the choice for you. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Brown, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from both the Lupine and Brown switches due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, the key point of differentiation between the Lupine and Brown switches lies in their bottom housings. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics to the Lupine in terms of depth and fullness. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect comparable sound profiles when typing on either the Lupine or Brown switches.
In terms of how the housing materials affect the overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the qualities of the top housing are more prominent when it comes to the sound produced upon letting go of a key. Therefore, while the Lupine and Outemu Brown may share similar characteristics due to their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings may influence the typing experience in unique ways for each switch.
Weight
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both fall within the medium weight category, with the Lupine being slightly lighter than the Brown. The Lupine has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke compared to the Brown, which has an actuation force of 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Lupine requires 62 grams of force, while the Brown needs 65 grams, making the Brown slightly heavier in this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch and less strain on their fingers during extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lupine may be the better option. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more solid and substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Outemu Brown switch might be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Brown switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Durock Lupine switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Outemu Brown being on the more traditional side at 4 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Durock Lupine for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Outemu Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key travel distance.
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 Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 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 known for its classic clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoy that type of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly in this aspect. In terms of feel, the Lupine switch offers a mild typing experience with smooth key travel, thanks to its polished finish. This results in a comfortable and approachable typing experience that many users will appreciate. The feel of the Outemu Brown switch is also unknown, so it's hard to make a direct comparison in this regard. Overall, if you prefer a linear switch with a classic clacky sound and a mild feel, the Durock Lupine switch would be a great choice. However, if you're looking for a tactile switch with unknown sound and feel qualities, the Outemu Brown switch might also provide a satisfactory typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, so choosing between them would depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, consider your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a consistent weight distribution and a clacky sound, the Lupine linear switch with its two-stage long springs may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more gentle typing experience and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Brown tactile switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you while typing. Happy typing!
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