Durock Lupine vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch with the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Lupine is favored for its two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution while typing and a more powerful upward movement upon rebound, accompanied by a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Each switch is categorized differently in terms of sound and feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Lupine and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, the key point of departure between the two switches lies in their nylon bottom housing. The Durock Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. With both switches sharing this material in their bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Despite the similarities in their housing materials, the Durock Lupine and Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ slightly in how these materials impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the same housing materials can still contribute to a unique typing experience based on how they are incorporated in the switch design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that they offer different weight options. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium typing experience, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch, but its bottom out force is not available. This means that the Lupine offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the Zero Degree 0°, but the actuation force for the latter is lighter. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, users can expect a lighter touch with the Zero Degree 0° and a medium weight typing experience with the Lupine.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, with the Lupine being slightly longer, this can still impact the feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0°, while those who prefer a more robust feel may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Lupine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a classic clacky sound profile, providing a familiar and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch boasts a sound-absorbing design that delivers a smooth and silent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter work environment. Each switch caters to different preferences in sound, with the Lupine offering a more traditional typing noise and the Zero Degree 0° providing a more subdued and stealthy option.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a consistent weight distribution with a powerful upward movement upon rebound, offering a unique typing sensation. The two-stage long springs in the Lupine contribute to a satisfying typing experience that is both tactile and responsive. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch features a self-padding design and dual-rail structure for unparalleled smoothness and stability. This switch offers a soft and elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, creating a comfortable and quiet typing environment.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that each switch caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Those who enjoy a classic clacky sound profile and consistent weight distribution may prefer the Lupine, while individuals seeking a smooth and silent typing experience with sound-absorbing qualities may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both options offer high-quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a classic clacky sound profile and a consistent weight distribution with a medium bottom out force, the Lupine may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent typing with unparalleled smoothness and stability, along with a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, the Zero Degree 0° could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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