Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Lupine is celebrated for its smooth typing experience, thanks to its unique two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution on the way down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the classic clacky sound profile of the Lupine adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but offers a traditional clicky switch typing sensation. 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
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Outemu Dustproof Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create 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 these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switches.
While both switches share the polycarbonate top housing, the Durock Lupine and Outemu Dustproof Purple diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Lupine's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. Additionally, the split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities in both the bottom-out and release sound and feel of each key press.
In conclusion, while the Durock Lupine and Outemu Dustproof Purple share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their choice of nylon bottom housing. The Lupine offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, while the Dustproof Purple absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a balanced typing experience, impacting both the bottom-out and release sound and feel of each key press. Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Dustproof Purple has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, the actuation force for the Lupine is not specified, while the Dustproof Purple has an actuation force of 55 grams. Generally, a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, which may be preferable for work or gaming. Conversely, a heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balanced feel for typing enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dustproof Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lupine. The Lupine's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the Dustproof Purple's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for those who prefer more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer their unique benefits, so either option can provide a quality typing experience depending on individual preferences.
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 Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it a versatile option suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether for home or work use. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has no specific sound description provided, so it is hard to compare directly. However, sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a gentle touch that appeals to a wide range of users. It is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, there is no feel description provided for the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch, so it is challenging to compare in this aspect.
Overall, if the sound description holds true, the Lupine linear switch may offer a more versatile and widely appealing option compared to the Dustproof Purple clicky switch. However, without specific information on the feel of the Dustproof Purple switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. As always, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and consistent typing experience with a classic clacky sound profile, then the Lupine linear switch with its medium bottom out force of 62 grams may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a switch that offers a high-pitched sound profile, then the Dustproof Purple clicky switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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