Durock Lupine vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch with the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lupine is praised for its smooth typing experience with a two-stage long spring mechanism, providing consistent weight distribution and a satisfying rebound. The classic clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and a balanced sound signature, making it an ideal option for those seeking a tactile typing experience without being too overwhelming. 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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Lupine and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, any differences in their sound profiles may come from the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing material, the Lupine utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared bottom housing material may result in a similar typing feel and sound for both switches, with any differences potentially stemming from the top housing material.
Overall, the Durock Lupine and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer similar sound profiles due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a similar typing experience for users of either switch. While the choice of housing material can have a significant impact on sound and feel, the similarities between the Lupine and the Violet Gold Pro suggest that users can expect comparable performance from both switches.
Weight
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer different experiences when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium resistance level, whereas the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, showcasing a lighter touch, with an unknown bottom out force. The Lupine prioritizes a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Lupine leaning towards a firmer push feel and the Violet Gold Pro offering a lighter touch, providing a variety for users to choose from based on their preference for typing intensity.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum, with the Violet Gold Pro being slightly longer. The Lupine offers a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast response times. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so choosing between the two would likely come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 offers a classic clacky sound profile, which is high-pitched and sharp when pressed. This sound profile is suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced and crisp auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it a versatile option for users who prefer a more balanced and less intense typing experience in terms of sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristics provide a gentle typing experience, while the polished finish results in smooth and refined key travel. This combination makes the Lupine a comfortable option for users who enjoy a more approachable and sleek typing feel. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, which means it offers a two-stage tactile feedback. This feature provides a more nuanced typing experience, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lupine provides a high-pitched and clacky sound with a mild and polished typing feel, the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel during typing. However, it's important to note that both switches offer quality construction and performance, so regardless of the choice, users can expect a satisfactory typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Durock Lupine linear switch or the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a linear switch with a consistent weight distribution and classic clacky sound profile, then the Lupine may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light touch, medium tactility, and a neutral sound signature, the Violet Gold Pro could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so carefully consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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