Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Lupine, a linear switch, stands out for its smooth typing experience thanks to its two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. This results in a classic clacky sound profile that many enjoy. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch, lacks specific standout features but is known for its reliability. While the Lupine is categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished, the Dustproof Blue does not fit into any particular category. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Dustproof Blue are quite similar in terms of their top housing being made of polycarbonate. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic material, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design of the switch.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Lupine utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar experience of a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon in the bottom housing, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the differing bottom housing materials between the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Dustproof Blue play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the nylon bottom housing of each switch contributes to a unique typing experience. The top housing affects the sound when pressing down on a key, while the bottom housing impacts the sound and feel of the bottom-out action. These differences allow users to experiment with various combinations of housing materials to customize their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Lupine has an actuation force of None grams, making it a lighter and potentially more responsive option compared to the Dustproof Blue, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Lupine is 62 grams, while the Dustproof Blue has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. This means that the Lupine may be preferred by individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Dustproof Blue may appeal to those who desire a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, so selecting either will yield similar results in terms of force required. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight considerations.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lupine. The Lupine's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Dustproof Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. Both switches offer unique benefits based on personal preference, with the Lupine providing a shorter travel distance for faster responses and the Dustproof Blue offering a longer travel distance for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preference for 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 Dustproof Blue 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 neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it is unclear how it compares to the Lupine in terms of auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, offering a gentle and polished feel while typing. This results in reduced friction and a sleek key travel experience. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the Durock Lupine would be a solid choice. However, without information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should choose the Lupine if you prefer a moderate bottom out force and enjoy the unique two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution and powerful rebound. The Lupine is also a great option if you appreciate a classic clacky sound profile when typing. On the other hand, opt for the Dustproof Blue if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy the satisfying clicky sound of a traditional mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for key feel and sound profile.
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