Durock Lupine vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Lupine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Lupine, a linear switch, stands out for its two-stage long springs, delivering a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The classic clacky sound profile of the Lupine adds a nostalgic charm to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, is designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. With a pronounced tactility that strikes the perfect balance, the Viola Tricolor offers satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share similar characteristics in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for those planning to incorporate lighting into their keyboard setup.
Similarly, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Lupine and the Viola Tricolor offer a satisfying and immersive typing experience with their nylon bottom housing.
Despite their similarities, it is important to note that the Lupine and the Viola Tricolor differ in their distribution of housing materials. The Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a significant impact on the sound when a key is released. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a similar sound profile when a key is released. However, the bottom housing plays a more prominent role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, while both switches offer comparable sound and feel during key presses, they may have slight variations in the sound produced when releasing a key.
In summary, the Durock Lupine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share commonalities in their housing materials, offering a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile with their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches also provide a deeper and fuller sound experience with their nylon bottom housing. However, slight nuances may be present in the sound produced when releasing a key, as the top and bottom housings have different impacts on the overall sound profile. Nonetheless, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch choice.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, both switches have an unavailable actuation force. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both switches. However, the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls in the medium range, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some users prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue. In this regard, both switches would provide similar results as their actuation forces are unavailable. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, switches with heavier forces are favored. In this case, the Lupine with a bottom out force of 62 grams can be considered lighter compared to the Viola Tricolor with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams.
Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch will depend on the individual's preference for a specific actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it is worth noting. Generally, a traditional travel distance is around 4.0mm, while 3.0mm is considered shallow. However, both the Lupine and the Viola Tricolor fall within the shorter travel distance range, which has become more popular in recent times, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize quick responses, then the shorter travel distance of the Lupine may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance like the Viola Tricolor. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness or a more substantial key press.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. Starting with sound, the Lupine switch offers a classic clacky sound profile. It falls under the descriptor of a neutral switch, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, characterized as bassy and low-pitched. This adds a touch of character to the typing experience without being overwhelming. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Lupine switch provides a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This creates a pleasant typing experience with a mild feel. Additionally, the Lupine switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor switch offers pronounced tactility without being overly tactile. It is described as accented, which means it provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This creates a satisfying feedback without overwhelming the user. The Viola Tricolor switch is also characterized as invigorating, offering a snappy and reactive feel, further enhancing the typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Lupine switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild feel with a polished finish. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to typing, along with pronounced tactility described as accented. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience. It is important to consider individual preferences and factors such as keyboard board and keycaps when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is a great choice if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. It 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, it offers a classic clacky sound profile, making for a satisfying auditory experience. The Lupine is described as having a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting. It is also considered to have a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience and a polished finish for smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be a great choice. It is best known for its thuddy and punchy sound profile, which adds character to your typing experience. The Viola Tricolor offers pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance. It is described as having a bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Additionally, it has a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the Viola Tricolor is considered to be accented, offering a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It is also described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback, firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound, then the Lupine is the way to go. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a thuddy and punchy sound, then the Viola Tricolor is the better option. Consider your desired sound profile and typing experience when making your decision.
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