Durock Lupine vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, two linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for typing enthusiasts. The Lupine switch is renowned for its exquisite feel, thanks to its two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Users will also appreciate the classic clacky sound profile emitted by these switches. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch combines innovation with visual aesthetics, featuring an ultra-smooth experience and a light-diffusing column that enhances RGB visuals for a mesmerizing effect. With its unique dry and airy smoothness provided by the UPE stem, the WS Morandi switch offers a distinct typing experience, different from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. Additionally, the Morandis have a medium weight, slightly shortened total travel, and a long pole design that strikes a perfect balance between form and function. While the Lupine focuses on a polished and high-pitched sound, the Morandi results in a more subdued and low-pitched sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi keyboards offer distinct differences in sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The Lupine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and resonant qualities. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize clarity and enjoy a higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing dimension to the overall keyboard design. In contrast, the WS Morandi's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. While this may not be as crisp as polycarbonate, it offers a pleasing and unique sound profile that some users may prefer.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Lupine features a nylon material that elicits a deep and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This can be appealing for users who enjoy a more immersive and mellow typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi utilizes a POM bottom housing, which offers a similar deep and muted sound profile as its top housing counterpart. This consistency in sound allows for a more balanced typing experience throughout the entire key press.
It's worth noting that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be distributed accordingly. The bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, making it more influential during the key press. Meanwhile, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when the key is released. This means that users can expect different sound experiences depending on the housing materials used in their preferred keyboard.
In summary, the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi keyboards showcase distinct characteristics in their housing materials. The Lupine's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, along with the option for RGB lighting. The nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, providing a more immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's POM top and bottom housings produce a pleasing and unique sound profile, with a consistent deep and muted tone throughout. Both keyboards provide users with different sound options and aesthetic choices, allowing them to find the perfect match for their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is interesting to note that the actuation force is unavailable for both switches. However, the Durock Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the WS Morandi has a slightly lower bottom out force of 60 grams, also classified as medium.
Considering weight as a factor, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the WS Morandi to enable longer typing periods or for extended gaming sessions. This lighter actuation force can provide a smoother and quicker typing experience. In contrast, those who prioritize a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may lean towards a switch with a heavier bottom out force, such as the Durock Lupine.
While the specific actuation forces are not available, it can be inferred that both switches offer similar actuation forces since they are not stated to be different. Thus, users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch have different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the WS Morandi has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Lupine falls into the category of shorter travel distances, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times. Its 3.7 mm travel distance ensures a quick and snappy keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Morandi offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, which may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a substantial feel when typing. In terms of travel distance, the Lupine is shorter while the WS Morandi is longer.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 is a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts due to its unique two-stage long springs. These springs provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, giving typists a satisfying tactile experience. In terms of sound, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile, which many users find pleasant. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch stands out for its innovative design and visual aesthetics. These switches feature a light column that diffuses light, creating a mesmerizing effect when combined with RGB visuals. The WS Morandi switches are ultra-smooth and offer a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, thanks to the UPE stem. This smoothness sets it apart from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. The Morandi switches strike a perfect balance between form and function with a medium weight, slightly shortened total travel, and a long pole design. Typing on the Morandi switches provides a slightly more muted sound profile compared to the Lupine.
In terms of sound, the Lupine can be described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes. It offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it versatile for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the WS Morandi has a low-pitched sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Its sound is described as subdued, producing a dampened and subtle sound signature. Additionally, the Morandi can also be characterized as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Lupine provides a mild typing experience. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, offering a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Morandi offers a buttery typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. It provides a seamless and effortless typing experience with uniform feedback. The Morandi is also described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and satisfying typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine and Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lupine provides a consistent weight distribution and a classic clacky sound profile, while the Morandi offers innovation, visual aesthetics, and a slightly muted sound profile. Both switches have their unique strengths, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience. If you are looking for similar qualities, the Morandi can provide a creamy and silky typing experience comparable to the polished feel of the Lupine, while still offering its distinctive characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a classic clacky sound profile and a consistent weight distribution, the Lupine may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value innovation and visual aesthetics, along with a slightly more muted sound profile, the WS Morandi may be the way to go. Additionally, if you appreciate a mild and polished typing experience, the Lupine offers a safe middle-ground option. However, if you prefer a buttery, creamy, or silky typing sensation, the WS Morandi switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and priorities in terms of sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
