Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch offer unique typing experiences. The Lupine stands out for its smooth actuation and distinct two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution on press and a powerful rebound movement. With a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine switch is categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch lacks notable features but is categorized differently. Depending on your preference for linear or tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel, either switch could be the right choice for you. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
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
Partial box
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
The Durock Lupine and the Outemu Crystal Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. This material is ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for better light transmission. On the other hand, the Lupine and Crystal Brown differ in their bottom housing material, with the Lupine using nylon and the Crystal Brown also utilizing nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Lupine and Crystal Brown share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material may lead to variations in sound and feel when typing on these switches. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the switches may offer slightly different typing experiences based on the distribution of housing materials. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide satisfying sound profiles and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Crystal Brown showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of mechanical switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound, their use of nylon bottom housings results in differences in sound depth and fullness. Whether one prefers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Lupine and Crystal Brown will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel when typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch differ in their weight. The Lupine linear switch has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is a medium weight. In contrast, the Crystal Brown tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is a bit lighter at medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Crystal Brown might be the better choice, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Lupine switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel while typing. Overall, the weight of a switch is an important factor to consider based on personal preference and typing needs.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances but the Lupine offers a slightly shallower press compared to the Crystal Brown. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Lupine due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Crystal Brown with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and sensitivity.
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 Crystal 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a classic clacky sound profile, making it suitable for those who enjoy a moderate sound profile with a satisfying click. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have a listed sound descriptor, so it is difficult to compare directly. However, sound nuances can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the Lupine linear switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle typing feel with smooth key travel, making it a comfortable choice for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the feel of the Crystal Brown tactile switch is not specified, so it is challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Lupine linear switch stands out for its unique two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution and powerful rebound, coupled with a classic clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is comparatively less defined in terms of its sound and feel characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. If a user enjoys a moderate sound profile with a satisfying click and a gentle, polished typing feel, the Lupine linear switch would likely be a good fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a consistent weight distribution with a powerful rebound movement, the Lupine is a great choice. Additionally, if you appreciate a classic clacky sound profile and a two-stage long springs design, the Lupine is definitely worth considering. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a medium-light typing experience, the Crystal Brown is a suitable option. The choice between the Lupine and Crystal Brown also depends on whether you prefer a neutral sound profile or a high-pitched sound when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics, so it's important to consider your own preferences and typing needs when making a decision.
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