Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock lupine linear switch and the Outemu purple tactile switch, there are some distinct differences to consider. The lupine is praised for its linear feel, providing a smooth typing experience with consistent weight distribution and a satisfying rebound due to its two-stage long springs. Additionally, the classic clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the outemu purple offers a tactile bump feedback for a more pronounced keystroke feel. While the lupine is categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, polished, the purple does not fall into any specific category. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
2.00 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 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 clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with these housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Durock Lupine features a nylon bottom housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple also features a nylon bottom housing, which offers the same benefits of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as the Lupine. In terms of sound and typing experience, both switches with nylon bottom housings will provide a similar experience.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Purple splits the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite some differences in the materials used for the top and bottom housings, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Purple has an actuation force of 50 grams. This makes the Lupine heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Purple, but there is a lack of information regarding the actuation force of the Lupine. Both switches offer a different experience to users in terms of force required for typing. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Outemu Purple with its lower actuation force, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Durock Lupine with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's 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 Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lupine has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Purple. The Lupine's 3.7 mm travel distance falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are often preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Purple's 4 mm travel distance is closer to the traditional travel distance, providing a more substantial keypress depth for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 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 that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. The classic clacky sound produced by the Lupine switch provides a satisfying auditory experience during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound. The two-stage long springs in the Lupine switch contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is unknown, so it is challenging to assess how it compares to the Lupine switch in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing feel.
Overall, if you enjoy a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, the Durock Lupine switch would be a great option for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with characteristics that are currently unknown, it may be worth exploring other tactile switch options to find the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Keep in mind that individual preferences and typing styles play a significant role in determining the best switch for you, so don't hesitate to try out different switches to see which one suits you best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a consistent weight distribution and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine with its bottom out force of 62 grams and two-stage long springs may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no bottom out force and unknown sound and feel characteristics, the Purple may not be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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