Durock Lupine vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Quinn, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features for a customized typing experience. The Lupine, a linear switch, is praised for its delightful typing sensation enabled by its two-stage long springs. The keys provide consistent weight distribution upon pressing down, followed by a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine emits a classic clacky sound profile, adding an element of nostalgia to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Quinn, a tactile switch, showcases a unique blend of crisp and light switch-like tactility. Its specially designed nylon housings contribute to a deep and resonant sound profile, enveloping users in a rich, immersive auditory experience. With the Quinn, expect a precise and clean tactile bump that enhances accuracy and comfort while typing. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and desired typing experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
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
3.40 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
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Gateron Quinn have different housing materials that greatly affect their sound profiles. The Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Quinn has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches have a similar transparent appearance, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon for the top housing will determine the overall sound experience.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Lupine and the Quinn utilize nylon as the material of choice. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for better sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more resonant and enveloping sound experience. Whether you choose the Lupine or the Quinn, you can expect a similar bottom-out sound and feel due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
It's important to note that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This means that the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing will provide a distinct sound when keys are released, while the Quinn's nylon top housing will offer a different sound profile in the same scenario. Despite these differences, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience with their respective combinations of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Lupine is currently unavailable, while the Quinn requires a force of 59 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Lupine requires 62 grams, which can be categorized as medium, while the Quinn has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, falling into the medium-heavy range.
For those who prefer a lighter key press, the Quinn may be the more suitable option, as it has a lower actuation force compared to the Lupine. This lighter actuation force can be advantageous for those who type for extended periods, whether they are using the keyboard at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals may prefer a more substantial typing experience, which can be achieved with a stronger push feel. For such users, the Lupine's slightly heavier bottom out force may provide the desired tactile feedback and typing satisfaction.
It is important to note that without information on the exact actuation force of the Lupine, it is not possible to directly compare the two switches in terms of their actuation forces. However, since both switches fall into the medium weight category for their bottom out forces, it can be assumed that they would deliver somewhat similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch will depend on individual preferences for key weight and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the shorter travel distance of the Quinn switch would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press and a more substantial feel, the Lupine switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be the better 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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. This means that when pressing down on these switches, users will experience a sharp and crisp sound, similar to that of a percussion instrument. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a deep and resonant sound profile. This creates a richer and more immersive auditory experience, with a clean and sharp sound profile. The Quinn switch also offers a touch of character to the typing experience with its unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility. Overall, while the Lupine switch produces a high-pitched clacky sound, the Quinn switch offers a bassy, resonant sound that adds depth and richness to each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides users with a consistent weight distribution when pressing down, coupled with a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This creates a mild and polished typing experience. The Lupine switch is approachable to most users, with its safe and middle-ground qualities. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a range of tactile feedback sensations. It is described as snappy and accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Quinn switch also has a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. Additionally, it is bouncy, giving users a lively feel and rebound when the keys are pressed. Overall, while the Lupine switch offers a mild and polished feel, the Quinn switch provides a more tactile and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine switch produces a clacky sound profile with a classic high-pitched sound, while the Quinn switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a bassy and clacky quality. Similarly, the Lupine switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, while the Quinn switch offers a more tactile and responsive feel with its snappy, accented, and bouncy characteristics. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired sound and feel. However, it's important to note that factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a consistent weight distribution and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Lupine's medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a comfortable typing experience, while the two-stage long springs offer a unique feel with a powerful upward movement on the rebound. In terms of sound, the Lupine produces a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement and a crisp, bright, and percussive clacky sound.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, the Quinn provides a medium-heavy feel. The specially designed nylon housing of the Quinn switch contributes to its rich and immersive sound, adding character to your typing experience. Expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump with each keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value consistency in weight distribution and a classic clacky sound, go for the Lupine. If you prefer a deep and resonant sound with a precise tactile bump, the Quinn is the better option. Consider the sound and feel characteristics that appeal to you the most and select the switch that aligns with your typing preferences.
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