Durock Lupine vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out are the Durock Lupine and the TTC Silent Bluish White. The Lupine, a linear switch, is renowned for its delightful typing experience. Its two-stage long springs provide a consistent weight distribution during keypresses, followed by a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Moreover, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile, adding a touch of nostalgia to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White, a tactile switch, offers a different experience. With its medium tactile feel, this switch provides a satisfying level of resistance that enhances precision and comfort while typing. Notably, the Silent Bluish Whites excel in quietness, making them an ideal choice for office or shared living spaces. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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 TTC Silent Bluish White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially useful for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to be more vibrant and visually appealing. Therefore, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound quality and visual aesthetics due to their polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Lupine and Silent Bluish White differ, with the Lupine featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Silent Bluish White also utilizing nylon as the bottom housing material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer composition allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether it's the Lupine's nylon bottom housing or the Silent Bluish White's nylon bottom housing, both switches will offer a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
It's important to note that when a switch has different materials for its top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while both the Lupine and Silent Bluish White share similar housing materials for their top and bottom, the experiences during keystrokes and key releases may differ slightly due to the variations in the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Lupine's actuation force is unknown, whereas the Silent Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lupine requires 62 grams, which can be considered medium, while the Silent Bluish White only requires 50 grams, making it lighter.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Bluish White switch would be a suitable choice. Its comparatively lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for a smoother and potentially faster typing experience. This lighter weight could be advantageous for those who spend extended periods typing, such as individuals using their keyboard for work or engaging in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial and heavier push feel may find the Durock Lupine switch to be a better fit. While the exact actuation force is unknown, the higher bottom out force of 62 grams suggests a more robust typing experience. This added weight can provide a tactile feedback that may be preferred by some typists seeking a satisfying key press.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on an individual's personal preferences and typing style. Those favoring lighter forces might opt for the Silent Bluish White switch, while those seeking a heavier and more substantial feel could choose the Durock Lupine switch. Regardless of choice, both switches offer their own advantages, and users can achieve similar results based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Silent Bluish White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. With the traditional travel distance being 4.0 mm and the shallowest being 3.0 mm, both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority, then the Silent Bluish White with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, for those who value a more substantial feel while pressing down on a key, the Lupine with its slightly longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile. It is described as having a neutral sound, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for various purposes and environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience, especially in office or shared living spaces.
In terms of feel, the Lupine switch offers a consistent weight distribution when pressed down, providing a pleasant typing experience. On the rebound, there is a more powerful upward movement, adding to the tactile feedback. It is also described as having a mild feel, which means it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Lupine is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch is described as having a "medium tactile" feel, offering a satisfying level of resistance when pressed. It is also described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The switch is a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages and can be felt during the keystroke. It also has a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel, and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile and a consistent weight distribution, offering a pleasant and approachable typing experience. The Silent Bluish White switch provides a muted sound profile and a satisfying level of resistance, making it ideal for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience. Both switches have a mild feel and a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined keystrokes. Overall, while these switches differ in specific qualities, such as sound and tactility, they both offer enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a consistent weight distribution while typing and enjoy a classic clacky sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience without being too heavy. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and value a precise and comfortable typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a medium tactile feel, providing a satisfying level of resistance while typing. Additionally, if you need a quiet switch for office or shared living space use, the Silent Bluish White is designed to be as quiet as possible. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
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