Durock Lupine vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Lupine is favored for its two-stage long springs, providing users with a consistent weight distribution on keypress and a powerful upward rebound movement. The classic clacky sound profile adds to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness attributed to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
Nylon
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the HMX Swift both feature polycarbonate top housings, offering a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housing materials creates a clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Lupine and the Swift feature nylon material. This choice of housing material continues to offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs sound effectively. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing materials between the two switches will still affect the overall sound profile and typing experience.
In summary, while both the Durock Lupine and the HMX Swift share nylon bottom housings that provide a deep and full sound profile, they differ in their top housing materials. The Lupine's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Swift's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. These contrasting top housing materials will impact the sound and typing experience of each switch, with polycarbonate providing a clearer sound and nylon offering a more muted sound. Despite the differences in top housing material, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience thanks to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Swift has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making the Swift the lighter option. In terms of actuation force, the Lupine's force is unknown, while the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams. The Lupine provides a medium bottom out force, while the Swift offers a lighter bottom out force. The difference in weight between the two switches may appeal to different users based on their preference for typing feel. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Swift for prolonged typing sessions, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force of the Lupine for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that the Swift switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lupine. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the slight variation may result in a different typing experience for users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lupine with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Swift. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch has a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as having a clacky sound, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. The Lupine offers a classic clacky sound profile, while the Swift stands out with a deeper sound due to its nylon housings. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Lupine being more versatile in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience. The two-stage long springs in the Lupine switch contribute to a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a powerful rebound on the upstroke. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. These qualities ensure a light and effortless typing experience with reduced finger fatigue, perfect for extended typing sessions such as gaming or work.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lupine provides a more versatile sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Swift excels in offering a deeper sound profile and a light, responsive feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to mechanical keyboards can find a switch that suits their individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance that will result in a pleasant typing experience, providing a similar level of satisfaction to users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a medium bottom out force, a classic clacky sound profile, and a consistent weight distribution during typing, then the Lupine switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a deeper sound profile with a silky smoothness, and a gentle typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, then the Swift switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.
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