Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and Outemu Dustproof Brown offer distinct typing experiences. The lupine, a linear switch, is favored for its smooth keystrokes supported by two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution on press and a powerful upward rebound movement. Its classic clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience, making it a popular choice among users. On the other hand, the dustproof brown switch, a tactile option, lacks specific attributes to distinguish itself but is known for its tactile feedback. While the lupine is categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, polished, the dustproof brown falls under an unspecified category. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preference and typing needs; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing option for keyboard enthusiasts. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in the top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits.
While both the Lupine and the Dustproof Brown utilize nylon for the bottom housing, they offer different sound profiles when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. The qualities brought by the nylon material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing, and the sound when releasing a key from the top housing. Users can expect a rounder and duller sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing, providing a unique typing experience compared to switches with other housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Dustproof Brown will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the Lupine providing a sharper and crisper sound profile with polycarbonate top housing, while the Dustproof Brown offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon bottom housing. Whether you prioritize a clear and resonant sound or a duller and rounder sound when typing, both switches offer distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts to consider.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Brown requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the Lupine which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Lupine is lighter with 62 grams, while the Dustproof Brown is heavier with 65 grams. This means that the Dustproof Brown may provide a slightly lighter typing experience at the start, but a slightly heavier bottom out feel compared to the Lupine. Overall, the Lupine offers a more balanced experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, while the Dustproof Brown leans towards a lighter actuation force and heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lupine offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Brown. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a quicker response, the Lupine may be the better option. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can give a more satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable for most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 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 while typing, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more traditional sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptions available, so it is difficult to compare the two in terms of sound. In terms of feel, the Lupine offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and smooth key travel for a sleek typing sensation. In contrast, the feel of the Dustproof Brown switch is unknown, so it is unclear how it compares to the Lupine in terms of typing feel. Overall, while the Lupine offers a specific sound and feel profile that may appeal to those looking for a classic clacky sound and smooth key travel, the lack of available information on the Dustproof Brown switch makes it challenging to provide a direct comparison. It is important to consider personal preferences and try out different switches to determine which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams and enjoy the unique two-stage long springs providing consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward rebound, then the Lupine may be the switch for you. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral or high-pitched sound profile and a mild or polished feel, the Lupine offers a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a tactile switch, the Dustproof Brown may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
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