Durock Lupine vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both offer unique features and advantages. The Lupine 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. With a classic clacky sound profile, typing on these linear switches is truly a treat. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear stands out for its smooth and high-pitched typing experience. Equipped with a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, these switches offer maximum RGB lighting customization. Additionally, the lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Lupine utilizes nylon while the WS Aurora Clear incorporates UHWMPE. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer composition allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, UHWMPE is a newer material known for its bright sound signature. It offers resonant clacks when typing, making it more distinct and potentially appealing to some users.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material will largely determine the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the contrasting bottom housing materials in the Lupine and WS Aurora Clear will influence the typing experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback. However, since both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they will still provide a similar sound profile and aesthetic when it comes to the release sound of the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, we can see both similarities and differences. Unfortunately, the actuation force of the Lupine is unavailable, whereas the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams. However, both switches have a medium level bottom out force, with the Lupine measuring at 62 grams and the WS Aurora Clear slightly heavier at 63.5 grams.
Considering weight, the Lupine is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience or need to type for extended periods of time, such as for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. This may be preferred by individuals who desire a bit more resistance or tactility in their keystrokes.
Although the actuation force of the Lupine is unknown, if it aligns with the WS Aurora Clear's actuation force of 53 grams, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. Overall, the Lupine can be considered on the lighter side, while the WS Aurora Clear falls into the medium-heavy range. The choice between the two would depend on personal preferences regarding typing experience and desired force for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you are looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Lupine with its shorter travel distance may be a suitable choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress 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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 classic clacky sound profile. This type of sound is known for its satisfying click and is suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch produces a high-pitched sound when pressed. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, this switch is a great choice. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This gives typists a unique typing experience that feels both controlled and satisfying. Additionally, the Lupine switch has a mild and polished feel, offering a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch is described as buttery, meaning it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch offers a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Like the Lupine, it also has a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer their own unique qualities. The Lupine provides a classic clacky sound profile, a consistent weight distribution, and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. It offers a mild and polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch produces a high-pitched sound and offers a buttery and seamless typing experience. It also has a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and approachable typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch have their own unique characteristics that make them suitable for different preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a two-stage long springs design, the Lupine would be an excellent choice. It provides a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, offering a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine would be a suitable option.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, the WS Aurora Clear switch is the way to go. With its transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, it allows for maximum RGB lighting customization. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and offers a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Furthermore, if you enjoy a high-pitched sound when pressing the keys, the WS Aurora Clear switch will deliver that sharp and crisp sound profile.
Ultimately, the decision between the Lupine and the WS Aurora Clear depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a medium or medium-heavy bottom out force, a classic clacky sound profile, or a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. By considering these factors, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall keyboarding experience.
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