Durock Lupine vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, both the Durock Lupine and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Durock Lupine is celebrated for its innovative two-stage long springs that provide a smooth and consistent weight distribution as you type, coupled with a powerful upward rebound on release, delivering a satisfying tactile experience. Its sound profile is characterized by a classic clacky tone, making it appealing for those who enjoy audible feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also affectionately referred to as the Duck Duck switch, is crafted with a meticulous blend of materials that ensures a subtle top-out and a crisp clack sound, enhanced by the excellent factory lubrication HMX is renowned for. This results in a subdued yet satisfying typing experience that can keep your hands gliding effortlessly across the keyboard. Ultimately, while both switches excel in delivering a smooth linear action, they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the HMX Sunset Gleam share a commonality that plays a significant role in their overall sound profile. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the auditory feedback when the switch is engaged. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is ideal for users who wish to showcase RGB lighting, as it allows for more vibrant illumination. Because both switches utilize the same top material, users can expect similar brightness and sound clarity when using these switches in RGB-equipped environments.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, a material recognized for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller auditory experience. The softer composition of nylon counterbalances the higher tones produced by the polycarbonate top, resulting in a harmonious mix of sound profiles. Therefore, while the Lupine and Sunset Gleam both feature a polycarbonate top that contributes to a bright auditory output, the nylon bottom of both switches provides a grounding quality that favors a rounder sound. This dual-material approach ensures that users will have a rich acoustic experience regardless of which model they choose.
When considering the overall performance of the Durock Lupine and HMX Sunset Gleam, the interaction between the two housing materials is key. The polycarbonate top emphasizes clarity and sharpness, which is particularly noticeable on key release, while the nylon bottom is more influential during the bottom-out phase, creating a full-bodied typing feel. Since both switches employ the same materials—polycarbonate for the tops and nylon for the bottoms—users can expect a very similar tactile and auditory experience. Ultimately, this synergy between materials results in switches that not only look appealing but also deliver consistent and rewarding feedback during use.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine switch has an unspecified actuation force but features a bottom out force of 62 grams, classified as medium. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Sunset Gleam significantly lighter overall, which can be advantageous for users who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue. The Lupine's higher bottom out force suggests a sturdier feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. Therefore, while the actuation force for the Lupine remains unknown, the Sunset Gleam clearly stands out as the lighter option with lower forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find that the Lupine features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sunset Gleam offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Lupine, with its greater depth, may provide a more pronounced tactile experience for users who appreciate a hearty feel when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Sunset Gleam could cater to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, allowing for faster keystrokes and less finger fatigue during extended use. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference: the Lupine's longer travel is suited for those who favor depth, whereas the Sunset Gleam's shorter travel is ideal for those who prioritize 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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 offers a classic clacky profile that is appealing for both casual and professional environments. This switch combines a moderate sound signature with a slight high-pitched characteristic, making it suitable for various typing preferences without causing undue distraction. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, while also designed for a satisfying auditory experience, has a more subtle top-out sound due to its refined materials and excellent factory lube. This results in a sound profile that leans toward a softer clack, making it less intrusive than the Lupine, but still pleasant to the ear. Since sound is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps, both switches can create enjoyable auditory experiences when paired with the right components.
In terms of feel, the Lupine switch excels with its two-stage long springs, delivering a consistent weight distribution through the entire key travel, complemented by a stronger rebound that enriches the typing experience. The mild and polished descriptors highlight its smooth operation and approachable nature, making it ideal for users who appreciate a gentle yet refined touch. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam's feel qualities are currently unknown, but given its design focus, it likely aims to provide a similarly satisfying typing experience as the Lupine. The blend of materials and factory lube suggests that the Sunset Gleam may also offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, potentially appealing to users seeking a more subdued tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, creating distinctive typing experiences. The Lupine stands out with its classic clacky sound and mild yet polished feel, providing an engaging typing environment. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam promises a more subtle approach, favoring a softer auditory feedback while likely delivering a smooth feel thanks to its thoughtful design. While their characteristics vary, both switches offer unique advantages that can cater to a range of typists, suggesting that personal preference will ultimately play a significant role in your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, consider your typing habits and preferences. If you prefer a switch with a medium actuation force that offers a balanced typing experience, then the Durock Lupine is an excellent choice. Its 62-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying yet manageable resistance, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. Additionally, the unique two-stage long springs ensure a consistent weight distribution, while the clacky sound profile can add an enjoyable auditory element to your keyboard experience. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch and appreciate a more subtle yet satisfying feedback, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its 48-gram bottom-out force, might be your best bet. The expertly lube and blend of materials create a smooth, polished experience paired with a gentle top-out sound, which can be especially appealing in a quieter office or shared space. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, desired sound profile, and the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard, ensuring you find the switch that enhances your typing enjoyment.
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