Durock Lupine vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you might be considering the Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Yanyu. Both switches fall into the category of linear switches, providing a smooth typing experience without any tactile feedback. The Lupine stands out with its two-stage long springs, offering a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile, adding a satisfying auditory element to your typing. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is ideal for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or for those who spend extended periods at their keyboards. Its material blend lends itself to a crisp sound profile, ensuring a satisfying auditory experience while typing. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the SP-Star Yanyu exhibit distinct characteristics that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer plastic allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a precise auditory experience. In comparison, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, offering a sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter. While it may not be as sharp as the Lupine, it still provides a distinct and enjoyable auditory feedback.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Lupine and the Yanyu diverge in their material compositions. The Lupine's nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory sensation. In contrast, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing brings forth its own unique sound profile. Although details are not explicitly provided, it is safe to assume that the blend contributes to the overall sound experience of the switch, providing a pleasant and potentially brighter tone.
While the top and bottom housings differ in material composition for both switches, it is important to note their influence on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, as it absorbs more sound and impacts the tactile feedback when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing holds sway over the sound produced when releasing the key, shaping the auditory experience upon key release. Although the specific qualities of each housing material differ, both switches offer distinct sound profiles met with varying degrees of sharpness and brightness, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users seeking different auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, some distinct differences can be observed. The Lupine switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Yanyu switch also has an actuation force of unavailable grams. Although the specific values are unknown, it can be assumed that the actuation forces are similar for both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Lupine switch requires 62 grams of force, which can be considered medium, whereas the Yanyu switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. This implies that the Yanyu switch provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Lupine switch.
Considering weight in switch selection can have various implications. Some users prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue, making it ideal for office or gaming scenarios that require long typing or gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces, giving them a stronger push feel while typing. In this regard, the Yanyu switch would be a favorable choice for those wanting a lighter typing experience, while the Lupine switch would cater to users who prefer a medium force for a more substantial typing feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, the Lupine has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Yanyu has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both falls within the range of shorter travel distances that have become popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. The Lupine's shorter travel distance might be preferred by those seeking quick and responsive keystrokes. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial key press, the Yanyu's longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying depth to the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for either a shorter and snappier feel or a longer and more pronounced keystroke sensation.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 best known for its unique two-stage long springs, which provide a pleasant typing experience. When pressed down, users will feel a consistent weight distribution, and on the rebound, they will experience a more powerful upward movement. In terms of sound, the Lupine switch produces a classic clacky sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or for extended typing sessions. It is particularly suitable for users who type for long periods of time. The Yanyu switch is known for its crisp sound profile, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound. Additionally, the Yanyu switch offers a gentle typing experience with its mild and feathery characteristics. The light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions in various scenarios such as gaming, school, or work. Similar to the Lupine, the Yanyu switch is also described as polished, ensuring a smooth key travel experience due to reduced friction.
In summary, both the Durock Lupine and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer a pleasant typing experience. The Lupine switch provides a consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound, with a classic clacky sound profile. The Yanyu switch, on the other hand, offers a delicate typing experience with its mild and feathery characteristics, producing a crisp sound profile. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. Additionally, the switches' polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, users can expect a enjoyable typing experience with either switch, depending on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and typing needs.
If you value a more powerful rebound and enjoy a classic clacky sound profile, then the Lupine switch is the way to go. With its two-stage long springs, it provides a consistent weight distribution while typing, making it a treat to type on. Additionally, the Lupine switch offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience or need to type for long periods of time without finger fatigue, the Yanyu switch is a great choice. With its feathery actuation and gentle resistance, it reduces strain on your fingers and provides a comfortable typing experience. The Yanyu switch also offers a crisp sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most users and settings.
Ultimately, it is important to consider both the sound and feel of the switches to determine which one aligns with your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you prioritize a clacky sound profile and mild feel with the Lupine switch or a crisp sound profile and feathery feel with the Yanyu switch, both switches offer quality options for a satisfying typing experience.
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