Durock Lupine vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Durock Lupine and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Lupine is praised for its two-stage long springs, providing consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward movement on rebound. This switch offers a classic clacky sound profile and is categorized as neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished. On the other hand, the Snow switch utilizes innovative POK material for the top housing and stem, resulting in a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound signature. Categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy, the Snow switch offers a unique feel. When choosing between these two switches, consider the sound profile, key feel, and overall typing experience that best suit your preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Dareu Snow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. However, the Snow's POK top housing offers exceptional durability and smoothness compared to Lupine's polycarbonate top housing. While both materials are great for showcasing RGB lighting due to their translucency, the POK material in the Snow switch stands out for its strength and wear resistance, making it a top choice for those looking for a reliable and long-lasting switch.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Lupine and the Snow utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience for users. With the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, both the Lupine and the Snow provide a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.
Overall, while the Durock Lupine and the Dareu Snow share similarities in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing, the differences in their top housings set them apart. The Lupine's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisp and resonant sound profile, while the Snow's POK top housing excels in smoothness and durability. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the sharper sound of the Lupine or the smoother, clackier sound of the Snow. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and aesthetics, making them suitable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the Lupine has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Snow's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lupine requires 62 grams, while the Snow requires 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider as it can affect typing comfort and fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lupine for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Snow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow switch. The Lupine offers a bit more depth when pressing down on a key, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Snow switch has a slightly shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for those looking for a quicker and more responsive typing experience, particularly favored by gamers. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Ultimately, the choice between the Lupine and Snow switches depends on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for most users whether they are beginners or advanced typists. The sound produced is characterized by a classic clacky sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, resulting in a deeper and more rich sound signature. This creates a different typing experience compared to the Lupine switch, making it ideal for users who prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The two-stage long springs offer a consistent weight distribution when pressing down, with a powerful upward movement on the rebound. This results in a gentle and refined typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel, providing a different tactile experience compared to the Lupine switch.
Overall, both the Durock Lupine and Dareu Snow linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lupine switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, the Snow switch offers a thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel. Choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback. However, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of performance and quality.
Conclusion
Therefore, when making a choice between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams, a deeper sound signature, and an innovative use of POK material for a smoother typing experience, the Snow switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a slightly higher bottom out force and classic sound profile (Lupine) or a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound signature (Snow). Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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