Durock Lupine vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine, a linear switch, and the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch, offer distinct typing experiences worth considering. The Lupine is favored for its linear design, boasting two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution on press and a powerful upward movement on rebound, resulting in a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Violet switches are known for their smooth actuation and poppy tactility, offering a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound profile. If you prefer a smoother touch and gentle feedback, the Violet may be the way to go, while the Lupine is ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile response. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and Jerrzi Violet both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. While both switches share this material for their top housing, the difference in their bottom housings will impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Lupine and the Violet feature nylon, a classic switch housing material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, contributing to the overall typing experience. Despite sharing this material for their bottom housings, the differences in their top housings may result in variations in sound and feel while typing on these switches.
Overall, while the Durock Lupine and Jerrzi Violet share similarities in their housing materials, such as both featuring polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the distribution of these materials in the switches may lead to slightly different typing experiences. The stiffer and clearer sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key, while the softer and fuller sound profile of the nylon bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that may appeal to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. The Lupine does not have a specified actuation force, while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Lupine is heavier due to its 62-gram bottom out force compared to the Violet's unspecified bottom out force. Some users may prefer the Lupine for a more substantial typing experience, while others may find the lighter actuation force of the Violet more conducive to longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer different typing experiences, catering to different preferences in terms of typing pressure and key feel.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for consistent typing experiences regardless of which switch is being used. Overall, the travel distance of the Lupine and Violet switches is equal, resulting in a similar tactile feel and key press experience for users.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch fall under the neutral category, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various uses. The Lupine may have a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the Violet, which produces a more balanced and gentle typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used in conjunction.
Moving on to the feel, the Lupine linear switch provides a unique experience with its two-stage long springs, offering a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward rebound. The feel of the Lupine switch is described as mild and polished, making it approachable and smooth to type on. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offers a stepped feel, giving off a subtle two-stage tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This allows for a gentler tactile experience compared to more aggressive tactile switches.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a linear switch with a classic clacky sound profile and a polished, mild feel, the Lupine may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile switch with a poppy tactility and a balanced, stepped feel, the Violet could be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer gentle tactility and a balanced, enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Violet tactile switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and needs to enhance your overall typing experience.
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