Durock Lupine vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear are two popular choices when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches. The Lupine is highly regarded for its two-stage long springs, which provide a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, it offers a classic clacky sound profile when in use. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque stand out for their ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, resulting in reduced switch noise and exceptional responsiveness. These switches offer a satisfying bottom-out without the usual cushioned sensation found in traditional silent switches. While the Lupine offers a polished, high-pitched sound profile, the WS Silent Linear provides a more muted and subdued typing experience. Both switches have their own unique advantages, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both have different top housing materials. The Lupine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in materials results in a distinct sound profile for each switch. Additionally, the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing does not offer this aesthetic feature.
Both switches also have different bottom housing materials. Both the Lupine and the WS Silent Linear have nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material contributes to a similar sound experience when typing on both switches.
It is worth noting that the housing materials of the top and bottom components of a switch have different impacts on the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing material primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing material has more impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while the Lupine and WS Silent Linear may have similar bottom housing materials, the top housing materials will still differentiate the sound profiles of the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, we encounter some similarities and differences. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force for both switches is unavailable, which means we can only compare their bottom out forces. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the WS Silent Linear has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classified as medium-heavy.
Considering weight is worth noting in this analysis. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming periods. For those seeking a more substantial typing experience, a stronger push feel is desired. These individuals would likely opt for switches with heavier forces.
Although we do not have specific information on the actuation forces of the Lupine and WS Silent Linear switches, we can assume that their actuation forces may be similar since they both fall within the medium range for bottom out force. Therefore, users can anticipate similar actuation experiences when using these switches, providing comparable results.
Ultimately, the Lupine switch is lighter with medium bottom out force, while the WS Silent Linear switch is slightly heavier with medium-heavy bottom out force. Choosing between them would depend on personal preferences for typing experiences, with the Lupine catering to those who favor lighter switches and the WS Silent Linear suited for individuals desiring a slightly weightier keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This may not seem like a significant distinction, but when it comes to switch travel distances, even a small variation can make a noticeable difference in user experience. The Lupine falls closer to the 4.0 mm traditional travel distance, providing a more traditional feel, whereas the WS Silent Linear leans towards the shorter end of the spectrum at 3.5 mm.
For gamers or those seeking faster response times, the WS Silent Linear with its shorter travel distance may be more appealing. The reduced travel distance allows for quicker key activations, enhancing the overall responsiveness of the keyboard. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial or deeper key press might find the Lupine with its longer travel distance more satisfying. The added depth provides a greater sense of key engagement, making each keystroke feel more deliberate.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear will depend on personal preferences and typing style. Both options offer their own unique travel distance, with the Lupine leaning towards tradition and the WS Silent Linear catering to those who desire faster response times. Regardless of the choice made, users can expect a satisfying typing experience, as both switches provide ample travel distances within their respective ranges.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a moderate sound with a rich and bassy quality. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is designed to minimize switch noise. It achieves this through ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, which result in a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. While the Lupine switch has a high-pitched sound, the WS Silent Linear switch is described as muted and subdued. This means that it produces a more dampened and subtle sound. It is important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer a gentle typing experience. They are described as mild switches, which means that they provide a more approachable and comfortable typing experience for most users. The Lupine switch is praised for its two-stage long springs, which result in a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. This provides a satisfying and refined feel. The WS Silent Linear switch, on the other hand, offers a safe middle-ground feel, ensuring a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. It is important to note that the feel of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as lubrication and the materials used in their construction.
In conclusion, the Durock Lupine and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile with a high-pitched sound, while the WS Silent Linear switch offers a more muted and subdued sound. In terms of feel, both switches provide a gentle typing experience, with the Lupine switch offering a more refined and polished feel. However, it is important to note that the ultimate typing experience is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board, keycaps, and any additional customization or lubrication. If you are looking for a similar typing experience, both switches offer a mild and approachable feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Durock Lupine is a great choice. These switches are loved for their two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine also offers a classic clacky sound profile that many enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear is worth considering. These switches are designed to elevate your office and work experience with their exceptional responsiveness and satisfying bottom-out. They feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts to reduce switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a distinct typing experience that is both tranquil and precise. The WS Silent Linear switches also produce a softer and quieter sound, making them perfect for those who prefer a more muted or subdued sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Lupine takes it a step further with its polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Lupine and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel.
Mentioned in this article
