Durock Lupine vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) 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 TTC Silent Frozen, both of which are linear switches. The Lupine is known for its unique two-stage long springs that provide a delightful typing experience. Pressing down on these switches offers a consistent weight distribution, while the rebound provides a more powerful upward movement. Additionally, users can enjoy the classic clacky sound profile that accompanies the Lupine switches. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switches stand out for their extremely quiet operation. If you prioritize a quiet environment, these switches are a great choice. They are not only silent but also incredibly smooth, providing a pillowy-feel typing experience. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switches are categorized by their thocky and low-pitched sound profile, further contributing to their silent quality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the TTC Silent Frozen both feature polycarbonate top housings, which creates 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. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, especially if RGB lighting is used. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and appearance when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lupine utilizes a nylon material while the Silent Frozen uses a polycarbonate material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the properties of the top and bottom housings have different impacts on the overall sound and feel. Pressing down on a switch will mainly highlight the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users may notice subtle differences in sound and feel between the Lupine and the Silent Frozen due to their contrasting bottom housing materials.
In summary, both the Durock Lupine and the TTC Silent Frozen share similar sound characteristics attributed to their polycarbonate top housings. However, the Lupine's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Frozen's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. As a result, users can expect slight variations in sound and feel when using these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Lupine's actuation force is listed as unavailable, while the Silent Frozen has an actuation force of 39 grams. This suggests that the Silent Frozen requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Lupine, making it more sensitive and potentially better for faster typing speeds. Additionally, the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the Silent Frozen has a lower bottom out force of 43 grams, which is lighter. This means that when pressing down fully, the Lupine will require a bit more force compared to the Silent Frozen, providing a more substantial typing experience.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer lighter switches like the Silent Frozen as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. These lighter switches can reduce fatigue and strain on the fingers during prolonged use. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger and more tactile feel may opt for the Lupine with its heavier bottom out force. This heavier force can provide a more satisfying and substantial typing experience, particularly for individuals who prefer a bit more resistance.
In summary, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine offers a higher bottom out force and an unknown actuation force, while the Silent Frozen has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force. The choice between the two depends on personal preference, with the Lupine providing a more substantial typing experience and the Silent Frozen allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, it is clear that the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Silent Frozen has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, lean towards shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. Therefore, if you value responsiveness, the Silent Frozen switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, it is important to note that some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, desiring a more substantial depth to their keystrokes. In such cases, the Lupine switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and requirements.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 produces a classic clacky sound profile. This means that when you press down on the keys, you can expect a sharp and crisp sound. The Lupine is considered to have a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. This makes it suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you are using it at home or in a work environment.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is well-known for its extremely quiet sound profile. These switches are considered muted, meaning they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Frozen switches are particularly suited for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, minimizing the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. The sound is described as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It has a low-pitched tone, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a consistent weight distribution when pressing down, resulting in a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Additionally, the Lupine switch is considered polished, meaning it features a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is characterized as creamy and buttery. This implies a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switch is described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions, such as for gaming, school, or work. Similarly to the Lupine switch, the Silent Frozen switch is also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch have distinct characteristics in both sound and feel. The Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile, with a neutral sound quality suitable for various purposes. It offers a mild and polished feel, allowing for a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch is extremely quiet and features a thocky, low-pitched sound profile. It provides a creamy, buttery feel and is exceptionally light to press. While they have their own unique qualities, both switches offer smooth and refined typing experiences. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide similar results with regards to their respective sound and feel profiles.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound, along with a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine linear switch is the choice for you. With a medium bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Lupine switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the Lupine switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you value an extremely quiet sound profile, super smooth typing experience, and a pillowy feel, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is the ideal option. With a light bottom out force and various sound descriptors such as thocky, low-pitched, and muted, the Silent Frozen switch delivers a deep, rich, and satisfying sound while minimizing noise. Moreover, the Silent Frozen switch offers a range of feel descriptors including creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine and TTC Silent Frozen switches depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider whether you prefer a more traditional clacky sound profile or an extremely quiet and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, think about whether you prefer a medium or light bottom out force and the specific feel descriptors that resonate with you the most. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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