Gateron Aliaz vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Durock Dolphin, a linear switch, are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is known for its quiet operation, making it perfect for office settings, while still providing a satisfying tactile feedback with a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch also offers a silent typing experience ideal for noise-sensitive environments, with a medium-heavy actuation force and a smooth linear feel. Both switches fall under the categories of 'Silky' and 'Muted', but the Aliaz is more 'Polished' whereas the Dolphin is more 'Low-pitched'. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Durock Dolphin both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sound profile of the switches by creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting for an aesthetically pleasing effect. However, the Aliaz incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, which continues to contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch.
In contrast, the Durock Dolphin features a nylon bottom housing instead of a polycarbonate one like the Aliaz. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use this material. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Dolphin provides a unique tactile experience that differs from the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz.
Overall, while both the Gateron Aliaz and Durock Dolphin utilize polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Aliaz features a consistent sound profile throughout, with the polycarbonate bottom housing reinforcing the sharp and clear sound produced by the top housing. On the other hand, the Dolphin's nylon bottom housing offers a softer and fuller sound experience that can be distinct from the traditional polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on the desired sound profile and typing experience for each individual user.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Durock Dolphin linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Aliaz also has a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams, while the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Aliaz requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press down, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Dolphin switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, we can see that the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Dolphin's 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Aliaz offers a slightly deeper press than the Dolphin. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dolphin, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the Aliaz more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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, both the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Dolphin switches are known for their muted characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to louder switches. The Dolphin switch, however, offers an additional quality of being low-pitched, which adds a more bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing sound. It's important to note that the overall sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished properties, contributing to an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These qualities enhance the overall smoothness of keypresses, minimizing resistance and ensuring a sleek typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a medium-heavy actuation force, providing a satisfying level of resistance for precise typing.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch share similarities in terms of their muted sound profile and polished feel. While the Aliaz switch offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with its medium-heavy weight, the Dolphin switch focuses on providing a balance of precision and resistance with its linear design. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound, with both options catering well to individuals seeking a quieter typing experience in office or shared environments.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Durock Dolphin linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and work environment. If you value a heavier actuation force and prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Aliaz switch would be a great fit for you, especially in a quieter office setting. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother keystroke and a slightly lighter actuation force in a silent switch, the Dolphin switch may be the better option for you, especially if you work in a noise-sensitive environment. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Aliaz and Dolphin switches will depend on your specific typing preferences and work environment requirements.
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