Durock Lupine vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct features to consider. The Durock Lupine is a linear switch that offers a unique typing experience with its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution on press down and a powerful upward movement on rebound. It also produces a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie, also a linear switch, stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Lupine is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Smoothie is described as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Smoothie, we can see that both switches offer unique sound profiles. The Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, they each offer a pleasing sound experience for different preferences.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Lupine uses nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic. On the other hand, the Smoothie uses POM for its bottom housing, offering a similar deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their bottom housing materials enhancing the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Smoothie will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the Lupine offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Smoothie provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top and bottom housing. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a unique and pleasing typing experience with the different housing materials providing distinct qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Lupine switch is heavier when bottoming out, while the Smoothie requires less force to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Smoothie may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Lupine would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may opt for the Lupine due to its slightly shorter travel distance, providing a faster response time. On the other hand, the Smoothie offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience with minor differences in travel distance that may cater to individual preferences.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 comparing the sound of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we see that the Lupine offers a classic clacky sound profile, which falls into the category of neutral or high-pitched depending on personal preference. On the other hand, the Smoothie provides a thocky sound signature that is more low-pitched or subdued, offering a deep and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Lupine might be the better choice, whereas those seeking a rich and bassy sound may lean towards the Smoothie.
Moving on to the feel of the two switches, the Lupine provides a consistent weight distribution on press and a powerful upward movement on rebound, offering a mild and polished typing experience that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone with smooth and refined key travel. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that effortlessly melts into each keystroke. If you prefer a more gentle and approachable typing sensation, the Lupine might suit you, while those seeking a seamless and effortless typing experience may opt for the Smoothie.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine provides a classic clacky sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, whereas the Smoothie delivers a thocky, low-pitched sound signature and a buttery, creamy, silky typing sensation. However, if sound and feel are the most important factors for you, choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound with a consistent weight distribution or a rich, bassy sound with a smooth, refined typing experience, both switches offer excellent qualities that will enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine is a great option for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, the Lupine may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Smoothie is worth considering. Moreover, if you prefer a switch with a POM construction and a sound profile that is thocky, low-pitched, and subdued, the Smoothie could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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