Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it's important to consider the unique features and characteristics of each. The Lupine is renowned for its smooth typing experience, thanks to the two-stage long springs that provide consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on rebound. The sound produced by the Lupine is a classic clacky profile, adding to the overall typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch lacks a specific standout feature but offers a different tactile experience compared to the Lupine. It is essential to note that the Gold switch is categorized as clicky, indicating its sound profile is distinct from the Lupine's, which is neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished. Ultimately, both switches have their unique advantages, and it's crucial to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to determine the best fit for your preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Gold, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clear translucency. As a result, both switches are suitable for users looking for a switch that offers a distinct sound and aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches ensures a resonant and clear sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, while the Lupine and Gold share similarities in their top housing material, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon for the bottom housing. In contrast, the Gold also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities that create a more subdued and muffled typing experience compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
Overall, the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Gold showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While both switches provide a unique sound profile with their polycarbonate top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing further enhances the typing experience by absorbing more sound and creating a deeper sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
Both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have medium bottom out forces, with the Lupine being slightly heavier at 62 grams compared to the Gold's 60 grams. However, the Lupine has no specified actuation force, while the Gold has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Gold switch may feel lighter and easier to type on initially, but the Lupine switch would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force. If a lighter switch is preferred for extended typing sessions, the Outemu Gold would be the better choice. Alternatively, if a heavier switch is preferred for a more robust typing experience, the Durock Lupine would be the ideal option.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Durock Lupine linear switch. The Lupine's 3.7 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Gold's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper keypress experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing feel. Both switches offer different advantages based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, while the travel distances of the two switches differ slightly, both can provide satisfying results depending on the user's needs.
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 Gold 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 provides a neutral sound profile which is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. It produces a classic clacky noise that is not too loud or too soft, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The two-stage long springs give a consistent weight distribution when pressing down, while providing a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This results in a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Outemu Gold clicky switch, there is no specific feel description provided, so it is challenging to make a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, the Durock Lupine linear switch stands out for its versatile sound profile and smooth typing experience. While the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks specific descriptions for sound and feel, it may still provide a unique typing experience for those looking for a clicky switch option. When considering both switches, it is important to factor in personal preferences, typing style, and the overall typing setup to determine which switch would be the best fit. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person or reading more reviews from users with similar preferences can help in making an informed decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine linear switch with its two-stage long springs and medium bottom out force of 62 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams and are not concerned about a specific sound or feel description, the Gold clicky switch could be the right fit for you. Consider your desired sound, feel, and typing style when making your decision between these two switches.
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