Durock Lupine vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Lupine and HMX Vintage Citrus present two captivating options tailored for distinct preferences and typing experiences. The Durock Lupine, a linear switch, is celebrated for its delightful typing feel, characterized by a two-stage long spring that provides a balanced weight distribution while typing and a robust rebound sensation. This unique design results in a classic clacky sound profile that many users adore, offering a satisfying acoustic feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch, also linear, is engineered with gamers in mind, featuring an impressively low actuation force of just 1mm. This makes it perfect for those who thrive on fast-paced gaming, allowing for rapid-fire inputs without sacrificing comfort, complemented by a bright, clacky sound and a remarkably smooth tactile experience. While both switches cater to distinct needs—whether you prioritize an enjoyable typing experience or quick response times in gaming—they each offer a notable allure. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that perfectly fits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.00 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-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches exhibit contrasting features that significantly affect their acoustic profiles. The Lupine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which introduces a sharper and crisper sound due to the material's rigidity. This stiffer plastic enhances the switch's clarity and resonance, making it particularly suitable for users who enjoy a more vibrant auditory feedback, especially when RGB lighting is in play since the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light effects. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus features a nylon top housing, a material that is known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller profile. Consequently, the switch experience with the Vintage Citrus tends toward a more muted sound, appealing to users who prefer a softer touch and auditory feedback.
On the bottom housing front, both the Durock Lupine and the HMX Vintage Citrus utilize nylon, presenting a unified characteristic that influences the overall typing experience. This shared nylon material in the bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the depth and fullness that both switches offer. Since the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, users will likely experience a similar acoustic quality when pressing down on both switches. In this regard, despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches can provide a satisfying experience grounded in the softness and sound-absorbing properties of nylon.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the Durock Lupine and the HMX Vintage Citrus yields distinct yet complementary acoustic experiences. The crisper sound profile of the Lupine results from its polycarbonate top housing, while the muted tones of the Vintage Citrus are shaped by its nylon top. However, with both switches ending in a nylon bottom housing, they share a common ground that influences the tactile feedback and reinforces the round sound profile when bottoming out. For those interested in an engaging typing experience that balances clarity with depth, the combination of these materials in either switch offers a unique auditory and tactile reward, albeit through different manifestations of sound.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine switch has an unspecified actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as medium in terms of resistance. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has a defined actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the Vintage Citrus is the lighter option, offering a more effortless keystroke that may benefit users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Lupine, with its heavier bottom out force, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the difference in actuation force between these two switches can lead to distinct typing experiences, where the Vintage Citrus provides a lighter touch, while the Lupine delivers a heftier response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Vintage Citrus measures 3 mm. This means that the Lupine offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key feel and a deeper response when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Vintage Citrus caters to those seeking quick and responsive keystrokes, making it a favorable choice, particularly for gamers. Thus, if rapid response is your priority, the Vintage Citrus would be the better option, whereas the Durock Lupine is suited for those who appreciate the depth of travel in their switches.
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 Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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, both the Durock Lupine and HMX Vintage Citrus switches deliver a bright and clacky sound profile, which is ideal for many users who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback while typing or gaming. The Lupine features a high-pitched sound, which adds to its lively character, making it appealing for those who favor a more crisp auditory experience. However, it's essential to note that sound perception can be influenced by various factors, including the choice of keyboard and keycaps you use in conjunction with these switches. Since the Vintage Citrus is also described as having a clacky sound, users can expect a similarly spirited auditory quality from both switches, making them enjoyable for both casual typists and avid gamers alike.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine offers a unique typing experience characterized by a consistent weight distribution and a slightly exuberant rebound due to its two-stage long springs. This makes for an engaging touch, particularly for those who appreciate an upward push during key release. The Lupine is regarded as mild and polished, ensuring a gentle yet pleasurable typing experience with smooth key travel. Conversely, specific qualities of the Vintage Citrus's feel are not provided, but given its design for rapid-fire inputs with an exceptionally low actuation force, it may cater well to gamers who favor quick responsiveness over a more tactile experience. While the Lupine leans towards a balanced typing experience, the Vintage Citrus is likely to offer a different sensation that focuses more on speed and efficiency.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch present distinct yet complementary attributes that can cater to varied user preferences. Both switches provide an enjoyable clacky sound profile, making them well-suited for both typing and gaming contexts. However, the feel of the Lupine emphasizes a smooth and engaging typing experience, while the Vintage Citrus is geared towards rapid actuation that appeals to gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal typing preferences, whether you value a smooth and mild experience or seek a swift and responsive feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences in typing and gaming. If you find yourself needing a balanced typing experience with a consistent weight distribution and a playful clacky sound, the Lupine is an excellent option. Its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams allows for a comfortable typing experience that can suit both beginners and seasoned users alike. Moreover, its refined and polished feel ensures smooth key travel, making it ideal for both work and leisurely typing sessions. Conversely, if you are focused mainly on fast-paced gaming and require quicker response times, the Vintage Citrus is specifically designed for this purpose. With a light bottom-out force of 53 grams and a rapid actuation point at just 1mm, it accommodates rapid-fire inputs that can enhance gaming performance. Its bright clacky sound and smooth push feel also contribute to a highly engaging and fun experience for gamers. Therefore, consider your primary use and preferences in typing feel and sound to select the switch that best aligns with your style.
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