Durock Lupine vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Lupine, a linear switch, and the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch. The Lupine switches are praised for their unique two-stage long springs, which provide a delightful typing experience. When pressing down, users can feel a consistent weight distribution, while on the rebound, they experience a more powerful upward movement. As for the sound, the Lupine switches emit a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience. They have a heavier weight, which adds a satisfying tactile feedback, and a refreshingly sharp clickiness. While the Lupine emphasizes a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Sage focuses on invigorating tactility. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
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 Kailh Sage share similar housing materials, with both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for incorporating RGB lighting into the switch design. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when using either the Lupine or the Sage.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lupine utilizes a nylon material, while the Sage also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. This common choice of nylon brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to both switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can experience a similar typing experience in terms of sound when pressing down on keys for both the Lupine and the Sage.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings are not distributed in the same way for these switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite the shared polycarbonate and nylon materials, users may notice some variation in sound and feel between the top and bottom parts of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, the weight of the switch becomes an important factor to consider. In terms of actuation force, the exact measurement for both switches is unknown. However, it can be inferred that both switches have similar actuation forces since no specific information is provided regarding their differences. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke for both the Lupine and Sage switches.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Durock Lupine linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of weight. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. These differences in bottom out force provide users with options based on their preferences. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Lupine would be a suitable choice, allowing for more extended typing periods and ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, for individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Sage switch with its heavier bottom out force may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision about which switch to use will depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier actuation experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference in length. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the Lupine with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more responsive feel, while the Sage with its slightly shorter travel distance may feel more abrupt. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences, with the Lupine offering a bit more depth and the Sage focusing on a slightly quicker response.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 the sound of the switches, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a classic clacky sound profile. This is a more neutral sound, suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch produces a distinct clicky typing experience with a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. If you prefer a higher-pitched and sharp sound, the Sage would be a good choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The switch has a more gentle characteristic, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile experience. It offers pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive feel with each keypress. The switch's strong and crisp tactile bump is distinguishable and can be felt distinctly.
Overall, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine provides a neutral sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience, while the Sage offers a crunchy, high-pitched sound with an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It's important to consider factors such as the intended use, personal preferences, and the overall keyboard setup to determine which switch would be the best fit for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch, the Durock Lupine is a great option. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a medium-level typing experience. The Lupine's unique two-stage long springs offer a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, it produces a classic clacky sound when pressed, which many users find satisfying. This switch is best suited for those who prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch, the Kailh Sage is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it falls within the medium-heavy range. The Sage switches provide a distinct clicky typing experience that is characterized by a refreshingly sharp clickiness. Users find the weight of these switches to be quite heavy, adding to the tactile feedback. The sound produced by the Sage switches can be described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This switch is ideal for those seeking a more invigorating and sharp tactile feel while typing.
Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Lupine and the Kailh Sage will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer linear switches with a moderate force requirement and a classic clacky sound, the Lupine is a solid choice. However, if you crave a clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and a distinct sharp clickiness, the Sage may be more to your liking. Consider the sound and feel descriptors provided and choose the switch that aligns with what you find most appealing.
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