Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Milk Blue couldn't be more different. The Durock Lupine, a linear switch, stands out for its unique two-stage long springs that offer a delightful typing experience with consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward rebound movement. Additionally, users can enjoy a classic clacky sound profile when using these switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch that is relatively unknown for any standout features. However, it is worth noting that this switch falls into the clicky category, providing users with tactile feedback and audible clicks with every keystroke. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles – the Lupine for a polished and high-pitched typing experience, and the Milk Blue for a tactile and clicky typing experience. 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
N/A
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting purposes. On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches opt for nylon. This material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a rounder sound.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Lupine and the Milk Blue, the distribution of these materials within the switches can lead to different typing experiences. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction in housing materials can result in a unique tactile and auditory experience for each switch, despite their shared properties.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Milk Blue plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing feel. While both switches benefit from using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the specific distribution of these materials can lead to distinct characteristics in how each switch sounds and feels during typing. By understanding the impact of different housing materials, keyboard enthusiasts can select switches that cater to their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium in terms of weight. Meanwhile, the Milk Blue requires 50 grams of force to actuate, offering a lighter touch compared to the Lupine, but its bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force plays a crucial role in triggering a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to fully press a key. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Blue, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Lupine due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you prefer.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lupine being on the shorter end and the Milk Blue being closer to the average. Gamers may prefer the Lupine for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Milk Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Milk 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 classic clacky sound profile, which is generally described as neutral or high-pitched depending on the specifics of the build. This makes it suitable for a variety of typing styles and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so it is difficult to compare directly. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a typing experience that is described as mild and polished. This means that users can expect a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key presses, resulting in reduced friction and comfortable typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the specific feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch. As a result, it is unclear how it compares to the Lupine in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Overall, based on the available information, the Durock Lupine linear switch seems to offer a versatile and enjoyable typing experience with its consistent weight distribution and powerful upward rebound. While the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch may provide a unique and satisfying typing experience as well, the lack of specific descriptors for sound and feel make it harder to directly compare to the Lupine. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of performance, but it would be best to try them out personally to determine which one suits your preferences better.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a consistent typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Lupine switch with its two-stage long springs may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and clicky typing experience, the Milk Blue switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Choose the switch that fits your needs best and enhances your overall typing experience.
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