Durock Lupine vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence the typing experience, and two popular options that illustrate this diversity are the Durock Lupine and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), both of which feature linear designs. The Durock Lupine stands out with its innovative two-stage long springs, delivering a uniquely satisfying consistency in weight distribution during typing, complemented by a pronounced clacky sound profile that adds a layer of auditory feedback to your keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) takes a different approach, showcasing a thoughtful combination of materials with its PA12 top housing that softens acoustics and a POM stem that produces a crisp, high-pitched resonance. This heavier variant enhances the typing experience with its subtle sophistication and precise responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the Lupine and the Xinhai (Heavy) comes down to personal preference: whether you favor the classic clacky feedback of the Lupine or the refined acoustics and feel of the Xinhai. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a distinct contrast arises in the choice of materials for their top housings. The Lupine utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that enhances sound clarity and resonance, resulting in a sharper and crisper auditory experience when keys are pressed. This quality makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting enthusiasts, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to pass through beautifully. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) opts for nylon in its top housing, a material known for its softer composition which tends to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. Thus, while both switches deliver unique auditory characteristics, their sound profiles diverge significantly due to the inherent properties of the plastics used.
Interestingly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings, which is also nylon. This creates a shared quality that results in a muted sound profile when typing, as nylon is effective at absorbing sound and minimizing vibrations. The similar usage of nylon in both bottom housings ensures that users will experience that characteristic deeper and rounder sound while bottoming out, regardless of the difference in the top housing materials. As a result, this shared nylon base reinforces the cohesion of the sound experience between the two switches, offering a fulsome typing experience that pays homage to the classic characteristics of nylon.
Ultimately, the differing materials used for the top housings of the Lupine and Xinhai (Heavy) lead to distinct sound profiles, but the shared nylon bottom housing serves as a common ground that unifies their acoustic performance. For those who appreciate the clarity and brightness of polycarbonate, the Lupine will be appealing, while those who prefer a rounder, richer sound may gravitate towards the Xinhai (Heavy). Nonetheless, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience that balances their individual characteristics through the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing, showcasing the importance of material selection in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while their bottom out forces are relatively close. The Lupine switch has an unspecified actuation force, which leaves a gap in understanding its feel during typing or gaming. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a defined actuation force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel conducive to those who prefer heavier feedback in their typing experiences. Both switches share a bottom out force of around 62 grams, with the Xinhai having a slightly higher measurement at 62.5 grams. This similarity suggests that both switches will feel quite comparable in terms of bottoming out, but the Xinhai switch's defined actuation force indicates that it may be the heavier option overall. Therefore, for those who favor a lighter weight for extended use, the Durock Lupine may be more appealing, while the Xinhai will cater to users seeking a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Durock Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it the longer option, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This variance in travel distance can significantly influence the feel and responsiveness of each switch. For users who prefer a more abrupt and responsive typing experience, the shorter 3.4 mm distance of the Xinhai switch may be more appealing. Conversely, those who enjoy a deeper and more tactile feel might gravitate towards the Durock Lupine's greater travel distance, which provides a sense of satisfaction during key presses. In essence, while both switches cater to different preferences, one can expect a more responsive experience with the Xinhai, while the Lupine offers a more robust depth.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 profile that strikes a balance between a neutral and a high-pitched resonance, making it suitable for a variety of settings, whether work or casual at-home use. Its sound is crisp and clear, avoiding the overly bass-heavy notes found in some other switches. In contrast, while the specifics of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch's sound profile are not detailed, it is crafted from a unique PA12 top housing which suggests a softer acoustic quality, paired with a POM stem that could produce a higher-pitched resonance. Given these attributes, users might expect the Xinhai (Heavy) to provide a more subdued yet refined auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Lupine switch is characterized by mildness and polish. A mild typing experience means that the switch is gentle, making it accessible for new users while still satisfying advanced typists. The polished qualities suggest a smoothly refined action, which is enhanced by meticulous design or factory lubing that minimizes friction and ensures fluid key travel. On the other hand, while there is no specific information regarding the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, its design is likely to reflect a focus on heavy-duty performance, which might offer a sturdier and more robust feel suitable for users who prefer a firmer typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches present appealing qualities depending on your preferences. The Lupine’s clacky sound and mild, polished feel make it an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile switch, while the Xinhai (Heavy) seems to offer a blend of unique acoustic softness and potential sturdiness. Ultimately, both can provide satisfying typing experiences, but they tap into different user preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback. Depending on your personal likes, either switch could deliver a delightful mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, your personal preferences and typing habits will guide you to the right choice. If you enjoy a typing experience that balances consistent weight distribution with a more dynamic rebound, the Lupine is an excellent option for both casual and moderate typing tasks. Its dual-stage long springs and clacky sound profile make it suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced typists, and its mild, polished feel ensures a smooth and approachable experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch that delivers a distinctively crisp sound and enhanced acoustics, the Xinhai (Heavy) might be your pick. Its unique design not only caters to a more sophisticated sound but also provides excellent tactile feedback for precision performance, making it ideal for users who appreciate a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, your choice would depend on whether you value versatility and approachability over heavier feedback and sound quality.
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