Durock Lupine vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Duck offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lupine stands out for its linear functionality, providing a consistent weight distribution while typing and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, it emits a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience, with a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile. If you prefer a linear switch that delivers a satisfying rebound and generates a distinctive sound, the Lupine is an excellent choice. However, if you value a softer and tactile typing experience with a crisp sound, the Duck switch may be the right fit for you. To make a well-informed decision, let's take a closer look at these switches and delve further beyond their generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Yes
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Duck, both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for those seeking a distinct and vibrant auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those intending to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more visible and impressive illumination effect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when considering the top housing of both the Lupine and Duck switches.
The differentiation between the two switches lies in their respective bottom housings. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, which is a traditional choice for switch housings. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced by the Lupine switch is slightly duller and rounder, providing a unique auditory experience for users. In contrast, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the top housing material. Consequently, the same benefits of a sharper and clearer sound profile can be expected from the bottom housing of the Duck switch.
It is important to note that the distinction between top and bottom housings significantly influences the overall sound and feel of a switch. When pressing down on either the Lupine or Duck switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, impacting the sound and tactile feedback during the keystroke. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound is more influenced by the characteristics of the top housing. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced typing experience depending on the combination of the Lupine's nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing, compared to the Duck's polycarbonate top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, we can examine their actuation force and bottom out force to determine their differences and similarities. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force of both switches is unavailable, which means we cannot directly compare them in this aspect. However, we do know that both switches have a medium bottom out force. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Duck has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Duck switch more suitable for their needs. Its lighter bottom out force of 58 grams allows for a smoother and potentially quicker keystroke, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may favor the Lupine switch. While we do not have the exact actuation force for both switches, it is reasonable to assume that the difference in bottom out force between the Lupine and Duck switches may result in a similar contrast in their actuation forces. Therefore, those seeking a heavier switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback may lean towards the Lupine switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch differ in their bottom out force, with the Lupine being slightly heavier at 62 grams and the Duck lighter at 58 grams. While the actuation force is unknown, we can infer that the Lupine may offer a more substantial typing experience while the Duck provides a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that the Lupine has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Duck has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Duck falls within the more commonly seen travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lupine offers a shorter distance, which is increasingly favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Opting for the shorter travel distance of the Lupine would provide a more responsive feel. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the Duck with its longer travel distance may be the preferable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.
Starting with sound, the Lupine switch has a classic clacky sound profile. It produces a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a clean and crispy sound. Similar to the Lupine, it also has a neutral sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Lupine switch offers a unique typing experience with its two-stage long springs. When pressing down, there is a consistent weight distribution, and on the rebound, there is a more powerful upward movement. Additionally, the Lupine switch has a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience. It is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience.
In comparison, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. It has a gentle tactility, providing a comfortable feel while typing. The Duck switch is also described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Similar to the Lupine switch, it is also considered mild and polished, offering a safe and approachable middle-ground feel.
Overall, the Lupine linear switch and the Duck tactile switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile and offers a unique typing experience with its two-stage long springs. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a clean and crispy sound with a more subtle tactile typing experience. Both switches are described as mild and polished, ensuring a comfortable and smooth typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine switches are the way to go. Their two-stage long springs provide a consistent weight distribution when typing and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switches are perfect for you. They offer a gentle tactility and a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Lupine and the Duck switches boils down to personal preference, with the Lupine offering a classic linear experience and the Duck providing a more subtle tactile feel.
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