Durock Lupine vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine, a linear switch, to the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, it's important to consider the unique characteristics of each. The Lupine stands out for its smooth linear action, provided by the two-stage long springs that offer a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful rebound. Typists are treated to a classic clacky sound profile with these switches, making for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is known for its tactile feedback, offering a bump in the keystroke that provides the typist with a more tactile feel when typing. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
55g
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
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
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 Tom both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual effect. Both switches offer similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material used in the Lupine and Tom switches. The Lupine uses nylon for its bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Tom's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This creates a distinct typing experience between the two switches, with the Lupine offering a more muffled and rounded sound compared to the sharper sound of the Tom.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Durock Lupine and the Outemu Tom plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on the switches. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings in terms of sound clarity and aesthetics, the difference in bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Tom's polycarbonate bottom housing or a deeper sound with the Lupine's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams. This makes the Lupine the heavier option in terms of bottom out force, while the Tom is the lighter option when it comes to actuation force. The actuation force of the Lupine is not specified, while the bottom out force of the Tom is unknown. This means that if the actuation force of the Lupine is similar to the bottom out force of the Tom, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lupine has the longer travel distance compared to the Tom. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Tom a potentially better option in this scenario. However, some may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, in which case the Lupine with its longer travel distance may be preferred for a more substantial keypress. 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 Tom 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 neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The classic clacky sound produced by these switches adds a satisfying auditory element to typing. On the other hand, information regarding the sound of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors beyond just the switch itself, such as the keyboard body and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The gentle typing experience and smooth key travel make these switches approachable for most users, offering a comfortable typing experience. Conversely, details about the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch are not provided, making it challenging to contrast the feel of the two switches directly. It's essential to consider the tactile feedback and actuation force of a switch when evaluating the typing experience it provides.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch stands out for its neutral sound profile and comfortable, polished feel. While information on the Outemu Tom tactile switch is limited in terms of sound and feel, it's important to consider the unique characteristics of each switch when selecting the one that best suits your preferences. Ultimately, both switches may offer a satisfying typing experience, but individual preferences and nuances in sound and feel should be taken into account when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Durock Lupine linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Lupine's two-stage long springs provide a unique typing feel that many users enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback in your switches and don't mind the bottom out force being unknown, the Outemu Tom tactile switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between the Lupine and Tom switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound profile. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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