Gateron Beer vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the Durock Dolphin offer unique experiences for users looking for different qualities in their typing experience. The Gateron Beer is a tactile switch that stands out with its translucent green appearance, reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle. It features a stepped tactility, providing a subtler tactile feel compared to other switches, and produces a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it offers precision and a satisfying press. While the Beer switch is easy-to-press and clacky, the Dolphin switch is polished, muted, and low-pitched. These switches cater to different preferences and environments, with the Beer offering a unique tactile experience and the Dolphin providing 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Durock Dolphin both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Gateron Beer and the Durock Dolphin feature clear housings made of polycarbonate, making them ideal choices for users who want a switch that showcases RGB lighting effects. However, the impact of the housing materials on the sound profile differs between the two switches. While the polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on a key, the nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the Durock Dolphin will depend on the user's preference for sound profile. If a user prefers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Beer with its polycarbonate housing may be the better option. On the other hand, if a user prefers a deeper and fuller sound, the Dolphin with its nylon bottom housing would be more suitable. Both switches offer clear housings that are aesthetically pleasing and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, providing users with a wide range of customization options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in both regards. The Beer requires an actuation force of 38 grams, while the Dolphin's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Beer requires 50 grams, whereas the Dolphin requires 62 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Beer may be the better option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Dolphin with its heavier forces may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level of a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Dolphin switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Beer switch. The Beer switch falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers for its quick response times. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so you can expect varying results depending on which one you choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, which provides a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a quieter option ideal for office environments. If you prefer a keyboard switch that produces a more vibrant and percussive sound, the Beer would be the way to go. However, if you value a quieter typing experience, the Dolphin would be the better choice.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press with a stepped tactility that offers a gentler and more subtle typing experience. This switch provides minimal resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a two-stage tactile feel, the Beer would suit you well. Alternatively, if you enjoy a sleek and frictionless typing experience, the Dolphin would be the preferable option.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Beer provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press, stepped tactility, while the Dolphin offers a muted, low-pitched sound and a polished, smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance that will meet the needs of keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prioritize a light actuation force, a refreshing stepped tactility, and a clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, a silent operation for quiet environments, and a polished finish for smooth key travel, the Durock Dolphin switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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