Bsun Avocado vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Bsun Avocado and the Durock Dolphin. The BSUN Avocado switches are well-loved for their tactile experience, featuring a snappy and responsive bump followed by a smooth downstroke that feels buttery to the touch. The pronounced tactility and neutral sound signature offer a satisfying typing experience without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphins stand out for their silent operation, making them ideal for quiet environments such as offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches provide a balanced feel between precision and resistance. While the Avocado is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, the Dolphin is polished, muted, and low-pitched. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your preference for either tactile feedback or a silent typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Durock Dolphin are quite similar in terms of the use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that polycarbonate provides. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Avocado uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dolphin also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which creates a similar effect.
In terms of sound profile, the Avocado with its nylon bottom housing may offer a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Dolphin. This difference in sound profile can be attributed to the quality of the nylon material used in the bottom housing. However, when it comes to the impact on typing experience, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying feel due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials. The split between top and bottom housing qualities may affect how sound is produced when pressing down on the switch versus letting go of a key, but overall, users can expect a reliable and consistent typing experience from both the Avocado and the Dolphin switches.
While the Avocado and Dolphin switches may have slight differences in sound profile due to their housing materials, both switches ultimately benefit from a combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their construction. Whether typing on the Avocado or the Dolphin, users can appreciate the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile provided by the polycarbonate top housing, as well as the deeper and fuller sound profile from the nylon bottom housing. Overall, both switches offer a quality typing experience that is enhanced by the unique qualities of their housing materials, showcasing the importance of material choice in the design and functionality of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Dolphin linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Avocado is heavier at 65 grams, while the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Avocado offers a slightly lighter initial typing experience but requires more force to fully press down compared to the Dolphin. Both switches provide a medium typing experience overall, with the Avocado leaning towards the heavier side. Ultimately, users who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Dolphin, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Avocado.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Avocado offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dolphin, potentially providing a faster response time for users who prefer quicker tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Dolphin linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may suit users who prefer a deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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, the Bsun Avocado switch offers a mild, neutral sound signature that won't be obtrusive during your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a silent option suitable for quiet environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is praised for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience with a buttery downstroke. The Durock Dolphin switch, on the other hand, is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a tactile typing experience, with the Avocado being more pronounced and snappy, while the Dolphin focuses on providing a balanced press with a bit more resistance.
Overall, if you're looking for a tactile switch that offers pronounced feedback and a buttery downstroke, the Bsun Avocado switch is a fantastic choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent switch that provides a polished typing experience with smooth key travel, the Durock Dolphin switch would be a suitable option. Despite their differences in sound and feel, both switches aim to enhance your typing experience and provide unique qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Bsun Avocado tactile switch versus the Durock Dolphin linear switch, know that the Avocado is optimal for those seeking a tactile experience with pronounced feedback and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. Its snappy and buttery downstroke makes typing a satisfying and immersive experience, especially for those who enjoy a sharp and invigorating tactile feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter workspace or office environment, the Dolphin's muted and low-pitched sound, combined with a polished and smooth keystroke, make it a great choice. With a medium actuation force of 62 grams, the Dolphin provides a balanced typing experience that offers precision and satisfaction. Ultimately, your preference for tactility and noise levels will guide you in selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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