Durock Lupine vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both of which are linear switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs, providing a delightful typing experience with consistent weight distribution while also offering a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, these switches emit a classic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches offer a bouncy typing experience, making them excellent for those who prefer that tactile sensation. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray switches is clean and clacky. The Lupine falls into the category of being 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', whereas the Polaris Gray is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision regarding the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Polaris Gray have similar materials used in their top housing, as both switches utilize polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to its relatively stiff nature, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Lupine and Polaris Gray switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic when it comes to their top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lupine differs from the Polaris Gray. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, which is considered a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound quality. In contrast, the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which retains its characteristic sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As a result, the bottom-out sound and feel of the Lupine will differ from the Polaris Gray due to the contrasting materials used in their bottom housings.
Furthermore, it is important to note that the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the material used in the top housing of the switch. Since both the Lupine and Polaris Gray incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing, they will produce a similar sound when letting go of a key. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more audible and distinct sound profile, providing a satisfying experience for users. Therefore, whether pressing the keys or releasing them, both the Lupine and Polaris Gray switches will offer comparable results in terms of sound quality, thanks to the material used in their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both switches have unavailable grams as their actuation force, making it difficult to determine a direct comparison. However, it can be inferred that both switches have a similar actuation force as it is not specified otherwise. Moving on to the bottom out force, we see that the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium. In contrast, the Polaris Gray has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Lupine more suitable for their needs. This lighter actuation and bottom out force allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Polaris Gray. Its heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, which can enhance the tactile feedback during keystrokes.
In summary, while the exact actuation force remains unknown for both switches, it can be presumed to be similar. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Lupine is lighter with a medium force of 62 grams, whereas the Polaris Gray is heavier with a medium-heavy force of 67 grams. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on the preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is the most common, while 3.0 mm is considered the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Lupine with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt, and prefer switches with longer travel distances for a deeper typing experience. In this case, the Polaris Gray, with its slightly longer travel distance, would be a more suitable option.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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. This neutral switch has a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. If you prefer a higher-pitched and sharp sound when pressing the keys, then the Lupine would be a great option for you.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch produces a clean and clacky sound. It is described as a low-pitched switch, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This switch also falls under the neutral category in terms of actuation force and sound profile.
In terms of feel, both the Lupine and Polaris Gray switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience. These switches offer a gentle and comfortable key press, which is suitable for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and provides smooth key travel.
Overall, the Durock Lupine and SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a neutral actuation force requirement and sound profile, making them versatile options for different users and environments. The Lupine has a classic clacky sound profile, while the Polaris Gray offers a clean and clacky sound. Similarly, both switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and smooth key press. No matter which switch you choose, you can expect a pleasant typing experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Durock Lupine switch is a great option for you. With its two-stage long springs, you'll enjoy a consistent weight distribution when pressing down, followed by a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine switch also produces a classic clacky sound profile, giving you that satisfying typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is worth considering. These switches provide a clean and clacky sound profile that many users appreciate. The Polaris Gray switch is also described as having a low-pitched sound, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, both the Lupine and Polaris Gray switches offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, they both feature a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value the unique two-stage spring design and classic clacky sound, the Lupine switch may be the right fit for you. However, if you prefer a bouncier typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched sound, the Polaris Gray switch might be the better option. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound profile to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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