Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine, a linear switch, to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, a tactile switch, one can see the distinct differences in their typing experiences. The Lupine provides a smooth and consistent typing experience with its two-stage long springs, resulting in a clacky sound profile that some users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade offers a quieter typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, perfect for those who enjoy a more subtle yet satisfying feedback while typing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade differ in their choice of materials for their housing components. The Lupine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in materials results in a noticeable difference in the acoustics produced by these two switches.
While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, the Lupine and Silent Yellow Jade share similar characteristics in terms of the sound profile created by this component. The nylon material used in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder tone. This similarity in material choice for the bottom housing of these switches may result in comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine provides a crisper and more resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a consistent feature of a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences and similarities in housing materials ultimately impact the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in weight. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, falling into the medium range, while the Silent Yellow Jade has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. However, the actuation force of the Lupine is not specified, while the Silent Yellow Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended sessions, the Silent Yellow Jade may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Lupine with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch. The Lupine offers a bit more depth in keypress compared to the Silent Yellow Jade. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Yellow Jade, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Lupine. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when selecting the switch that best suits individual typing or gaming 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 Silent Yellow Jade 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 provides a neutral and high-pitched sound profile, offering a versatile option suitable for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch is known for its "thocky" sound, providing a quieter and more tactile typing experience compared to the Lupine. The Lupine's classic clacky sound may appeal to those who enjoy a sharper and crisper sound when typing, while the Silent Yellow Jade's unique sound may be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined key press with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This smooth and approachable typing experience may be suitable for a wide range of users, offering a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch is unknown, but given its tactile nature, it is likely to provide a more pronounced feedback during typing compared to the Lupine.
Overall, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, catering to varying preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. Both switches have their unique characteristics and strengths, providing users with options depending on their typing style and preference for sound and feel. Whether you prefer a neutral and high-pitched sound with a mild and polished feel of the Lupine, or a quiet and tactile "thocky" sound experience with the Silent Yellow Jade, both switches offer a quality typing experience that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter 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 enjoy a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Silent Yellow Jade may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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