Durock Lupine vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and the Jwick Splash Brothers both offer unique features that make them stand out. The Lupine is best known for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile, adding to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches offer a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. These "speed" switches also emit a creamy sound signature, adding a touch of elegance to your typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Jwick Splash Brothers, specifically their polycarbonate top housings, provide similar benefits. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes them ideal choices for those seeking a clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enables the switches to effectively showcase RGB lighting. Therefore, whether it's the Lupine or the Splash Brothers, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
While the top housings share similarities, the bottom housings of the Lupine and the Splash Brothers differ in material. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, which offers its own set of advantages. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, mainly due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. As a result, the Lupine delivers a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers also boast a nylon bottom housing, meaning they share the same benefits as the Lupine in terms of sound depth and absorption.
When considering the overall impact on sound and feel, it's important to note that the housing materials in these switches are divided between the top and bottom. Pressing down on the switch primarily emphasizes the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more prominent role when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced upon release. Therefore, while the Lupine and the Splash Brothers may share similar polycarbonate top housings, their bottom housings will ultimately result in slight variations in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is important to note that the specific force measurements for both switches are unavailable. However, based on the information provided, we can still draw some comparisons.
In terms of weight, the lighter option would be the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch. This lighter weight can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. This makes it a suitable choice for keyboards used at work or during extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch appears to be the heavier option, as it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. This heavier force can provide a stronger push feel, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. Individuals who prefer this tactile feedback may find the Lupine switch to be better suited for their needs.
It is worth noting that without the exact actuation force measurements, we cannot provide a direct comparison in terms of how easy or difficult it is to trigger a keystroke with either switch. However, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that the Jwick Splash Brothers switch may have a lighter actuation force compared to the Durock Lupine switch.
In conclusion, while the specific force measurements are unknown, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch appears to be the lighter option, potentially offering an easier keystroke actuation. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch seems to provide a heavier bottom out force, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, one may opt for the lighter option for longer typing periods, while others may prefer the heavier force for a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for quicker keystrokes. However, it's worth noting that some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt. If you enjoy a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, the Durock Lupine switch with its longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the travel distance of the switches caters to personal preferences and the desired level of 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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 is best known for its two-stage long springs that provide a unique typing experience. When pressing down, users will feel a consistent weight distribution, and on the rebound, a more powerful upward movement. As for sound, the Lupine switch produces a classic clacky sound profile when used. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The Lupine switch can be described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound level and is suitable for those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Lupine switch is considered a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience. It has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Lupine switch provides a satisfying typing feel and sound profile that will appeal to a wide range of users.
On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is best known for its shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, which gives it a great typing feel. It is also described as having a creamy sound signature, offering a unique sound experience when typing. Similar to the Lupine switch, the Splash Brothers switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most users and purposes. In terms of feel, the Splash Brothers switch can be classified as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. It is also described as snappy, with super-responsive feedback, and bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. Like the Lupine switch, the Splash Brothers switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Splash Brothers switch offers a satisfying typing feel and creamy sound profile that will meet the expectations of many users.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer unique and satisfying qualities for typing enthusiasts. While the Lupine switch provides a consistent weight distribution and a classic clacky sound profile, the Splash Brothers switch offers a shorter activation, a long pole stem, and a creamy sound signature. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and are suitable for most intents and purposes. Furthermore, they share the same mild and polished characteristics, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, whether you choose the Lupine or the Splash Brothers switch, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, with slight variations in the specific qualities they offer.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine would be the ideal choice for you. It offers a consistent weight distribution when pressed down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Lupine has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch would be the perfect fit. With its shorter activation and long pole stem, it offers a great typing feel and a gentle typing experience. Furthermore, the Splash Brothers has a neutral sound profile, ensuring its suitability for most intents and purposes. Both switches also feature a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine and Jwick Splash Brothers comes down to personal preference for bottom out force and sound profile.
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