Durock Lupine vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the selection process can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Two popular choices in the market are the Durock Lupine, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch. The Lupine stands out for its unique two-stage long springs, providing a pleasant typing experience. The consistent weight distribution when pressing down is complemented by a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, resulting in satisfying key presses. Additionally, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile that many users enjoy. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a moderate level of tactility. Aflion's single spring variant offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for users who prefer a softer tactile sensation. Moreover, its deep and thocky sound profile enhances the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize aesthetics and customizable lighting options.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lupine and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ in their material choices. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound as its polycarbonate top housing. The bottom housing of the switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing users with a unique typing experience.
In summary, while both the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring use polycarbonate for their top housing, their bottom housing materials differ. The Lupine incorporates nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains the sharp and crisp characteristics of polycarbonate throughout the switch. Their contrasting bottom housing materials offer users the opportunity to choose between a rounder sound with the Lupine or a consistently sharp sound with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Lupine has an unavailable grams actuation force, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Lupine. In terms of bottom out force, the Lupine has a heavier force of 62 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter force of 55 grams.
Considering weight as an important factor, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a stronger push may lean towards the Lupine switch, as it has a higher bottom out force. It is important to note that while the Lupine's actuation force is unavailable, its heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require a relatively higher force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
In summary, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine is likely to have a higher actuation force, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired keypress feel.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer slightly different experiences. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of commonly used travel distances, with the Lupine being on the shallower end and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring sitting closer to the traditional 4.0 mm mark, there are still some noticeable distinctions. Gamers, in particular, often opt for shorter travel distances as it allows for quicker response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Lupine's shorter travel distance may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial pressing experience might gravitate towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preference for either a quicker and more immediate response or a more pronounced and satisfying key press.
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) Single 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) Single 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
When it comes to sound, the Lupine linear switch is best described as having a classic clacky sound profile. This means that users can expect a satisfying and recognizable sound when typing on these switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is unknown, as no specific information is provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Lupine linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that the switch provides a gentle and approachable feel when typing, making it suitable for most users. Additionally, the Lupine switch is also described as being polished, which suggests a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as being bouncy. This indicates that the keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
In summary, the Durock Lupine linear switch stands out for its classic clacky sound profile and mild, polished feel. It offers consistent weight distribution during key presses and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. On the other hand, information about the sound profile and additional characteristics of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is unavailable. While the Lupine and Shadow switches have their own unique qualities, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps when choosing the ideal switch for individual typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Durock Lupine linear switch, you should opt for it if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile. These linear switches provide a consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, resulting in a delightful typing experience. Additionally, if you value a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Lupine is a great choice. On the other hand, if you are interested in the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, go for it if you desire a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a deep thocky sound profile. This single spring variant offers a very approachable level of tactility and a bouncy, spring-like feedback sensation, enhancing your typing enjoyment. If you are drawn to polished switches with a smooth and refined finish, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is an ideal option. Ultimately, your switch choice should align with your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both the Lupine and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider these guidelines when making your decision.
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