Durock Lupine vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and Gateron Type L linear switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Lupine is praised for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward rebound movement. This switch also emits a classic clacky sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is recognized for being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out. It offers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, providing a more subdued typing experience. While the Lupine is categorized as 'High-pitched' and 'Polished', the Type L is categorized as 'Feathery' and 'Easy-to-press'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; 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
38g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Type L, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. However, the Lupine uses polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Type L also uses nylon for its top housing, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile that is similar to the bottom housing material.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Durock Lupine offers a translucent look that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to personalize their keyboard setups with colorful lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Gateron Type L may not offer the same level of translucency for RGB lighting effects, but it does provide a classic look that complements a wide range of keyboard designs. Both materials have their own unique appeal, catering to different preferences in terms of visual aesthetics.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Type L will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics. While the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound with its stiffer nature, the Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound that absorbs more sound. The nylon bottom housings of both switches reinforce this deeper sound profile, creating a consistent typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide quality housing materials that contribute to the overall feel and sound of the keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Lupine has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Type L's 45 grams, making the Lupine the heavier option. However, the Type L has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the Lupine's actuation force is unknown. This means that the Type L is lighter in terms of triggering keystrokes. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gateron Type L would be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Lupine providing a heavier bottom out force and the Type L offering a lighter actuation force.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lupine has a shorter travel distance compared to the Type L. The Lupine's 3.7 mm provides a slightly quicker response time, which might be preferred by gamers looking for a speed advantage. On the other hand, the Type L's 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth and may feel more comfortable to those who prefer a more traditional key press feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a classic clacky sound, which is a favorite among many users for its moderate actuation force requirement and moderate sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch provides a more subdued sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. This makes the Type L a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the Lupine offering a more classic sound and the Type L providing a deeper, more subtle sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. This makes it approachable to most users, with its safe, middle-ground characteristics. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This makes the Type L a comfortable choice for prolonged use, whether for gaming, school, or work. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Lupine providing a gentle and refined feel, while the Type L offers a light and effortless typing experience.
Overall, both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine provides a classic clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, making it a solid choice for those looking for a traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L offers a deeper, more subdued sound profile and a feathery, easy-to-press feel, catering to those who prefer a quieter and more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, a classic clacky sound profile, and a typing experience that is described as mild and polished, then the Lupine may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, a sound profile that veers towards the deeper end of the spectrum, and a typing feel that is feathery and easy-to-press, then the Type L may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you as you type.
Mentioned in this article
