Durock Lupine vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Lupine stands out for its linear switch design, offering a smooth typing experience thanks to its two-stage long springs. Users can expect consistent weight distribution while pressing down, followed by a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine also delivers a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a tactile switch experience with a medium-high level of tactility. Its long, two-staged spring design ensures a satisfying feedback while typing, accompanied by deep, resonating thocks. Both switches offer their unique characteristics and can 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches share some similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for switches with similar sound characteristics and a visually appealing RGB lighting effect, both the Lupine and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches with their polycarbonate top housing would provide comparable results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, these switches differ. The Lupine utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, known as a classic switch housing material, generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to its polycarbonate top housing. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
In summary, while the top housings of both the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches share the benefits of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differ in material and subsequently impact the sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Lupine delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these two switches accordingly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. In terms of actuation force, the exact value for the Lupine is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare with the 55 grams of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. However, both switches can be considered to have a medium actuation force.
In regards to bottom out force, the Lupine has a force of 62 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly higher force of 63 grams. This indicates that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly firmer bottom out feel compared to the Lupine.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch. Some prefer lighter switches, as they allow for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. This is ideal for keyboards used in work environments or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Those who seek a heavier force may opt for switches with higher actuation and bottom out forces.
In conclusion, while the actuation force for the Lupine is unavailable, both switches can be categorized as having a medium actuation force. However, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly higher bottom out force, resulting in a firmer typing experience. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for lighter or firmer keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lupine falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, offering a slightly shallower travel distance. This makes it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a longer travel distance, giving a more substantial depth to each key press. This can be appealing for individuals who enjoy a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
The Durock Lupine linear switch is known for its two-stage long springs, which provide a unique typing experience. When pressing down, users will feel a consistent weight distribution, and on the rebound, they will experience a more powerful upward movement. In terms of sound, the Lupine switch produces a classic clacky sound profile. This can be described as sharp, crisp, and percussive. It has a neutral sound profile, which means it is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its medium-high level of tactility, which is ideal for those seeking a tactile typing experience. It features long, two-staged springs that provide a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. When typing on the Shadow switches, users will notice deep and resonating thocks. In terms of sound, the Shadow switch has a clacky sound profile, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. Similar to the Lupine, it also has a high-pitched sound profile.
In summary, the Lupine and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer different subjective qualities. The Lupine provides a linear typing experience with a consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Its sound profile is described as clacky and neutral. On the other hand, the Shadow switch offers a tactile typing experience with a strong and crisp tactile bump. It produces deep and resonating thocks and has a clacky sound profile. Both switches have high-pitched sound profiles. Overall, the Lupine and Shadow switches provide unique typing experiences and can be chosen based on individual preferences for weight distribution, tactile feedback, and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Durock Lupine linear switch is a great choice. Its two-stage long springs provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The sound profile of the Lupine is neutral, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the switch for you. Its long, two-staged spring offers a sharp and snappy tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is clacky, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. Ultimately, the choice between the Lupine and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches and the specific characteristics and sounds that appeal to you.
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