Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the unique characteristics that each switch offers. The Durock Lupine, a linear switch, is favored for its smooth typing experience, thanks to its two-stage long springs that provide consistent weight distribution during key presses and a satisfying rebound motion. Additionally, the classic clacky sound profile of the Lupine adds an extra layer of tactile feedback for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean, also a linear switch, stands out for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those looking for a more discreet 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Lupine's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate bottom housing, as nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the top housing of both switches will contribute to a similar sound profile, but the bottom housing will provide a noticeable difference in sound when typing.
In terms of sound profile, the Durock Lupine's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique blend of sharpness and depth. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing produces a clearer and more resonant sound when pressing down on the key, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller sound profile as the key bottoms out. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean's consistent use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing may lead to a more uniform sound quality throughout the typing experience. This could result in a more consistent sound profile but may lack the depth and variation offered by the Lupine's dual housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Silent Ocean will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience. The Lupine's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offers a unique blend of sharpness and depth, providing a more dynamic sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Ocean's consistent use of polycarbonate may result in a more uniform sound quality. Both switches have their strengths and weaknesses, so it's essential for users to consider their preferences for sound and feel when making a decision between the two.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier in comparison. On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Lupine requires 62 grams, which is lighter than the bottom out force of the Silent Ocean at 65 grams. This means that the Silent Ocean provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Lupine may be the better choice, while the Silent Ocean would be more suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, the Lupine provides a slightly quicker response time compared to the Silent Ocean. Gamers who prioritize speed and agility may prefer the Lupine for its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press experience may lean towards the Silent Ocean for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. Both switches offer a balance between speed and depth, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
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 Silent Ocean 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 classic clacky sound profile that many keyboard enthusiasts enjoy. This gives a satisfying auditory feedback while typing, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more traditional sound experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch's sound profile is unknown, which means that the sound produced by this switch is not clearly defined. This difference in sound characteristics between the two switches can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users who have specific preferences in sound feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Lupine linear switch is known for providing a mild and polished typing experience. With a gentle typing feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, users can expect a smooth and refined key travel when using these switches. The two-stage long springs in the Lupine switch create a unique typing experience with a consistent weight distribution and powerful upward movement on the rebound. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is unspecified, leaving users with limited information on how this switch will feel during use. This lack of information can make it difficult for users to determine if the Silent Ocean switch meets their specific typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a satisfying clacky sound profile and a gentle, polished typing feel due to its unique two-stage long springs. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch lacks information on its sound and feel characteristics, making it challenging for users to make an informed decision. Overall, if a user is looking for a similar typing experience to the Durock Lupine switch, they may consider options with a neutral sound profile and mild feel to achieve comparable results. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for an individual's typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches, consider the bottom out force and sound profile that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are not particular about sound profile, the Silent Ocean could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize bottom out force or sound profile in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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