Kailh Box Jade vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and Durock Dolphin are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Box Jade is perfect for those who enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility, characterized by its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Dolphin is ideal for those who prefer a silent switch, making it suitable for office environments or spaces where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, the Dolphin offers a polished and muted 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Durock Dolphin, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. In contrast, the Box Jade and Dolphin both have nylon bottom housings that produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
Despite both switches utilizing similar housing materials, the different configurations of the top and bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as creating a deeper sound profile, have a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing characteristics, like sharpness and crispness, influence the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a unique combination of sound profiles in both switches, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
While both the Box Jade and Durock Dolphin share similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate and nylon, the specific design and construction of each switch can result in distinct typing experiences. The choice of housing materials affects not only the sound profile but also the feel of each keypress. Whether it's the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing, each switch offers a unique combination of qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch, making them a key consideration for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, we can see some differences. The Box Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dolphin's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dolphin is slightly heavier at 62 grams compared to the Box Jade's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, but the Dolphin provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Box Jade may be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quick responsiveness. Gamers, in particular, may prefer these shorter travel distances for faster response times during gameplay. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant enough to noticeably affect performance, so you can expect similar results from both. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for the feel of the switch - whether you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance with the Box Jade or a slightly longer one with the Dolphin.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Jade clicky switch produces a high-pitched and crunchy sound, reminiscent of crisp autumn leaves. This sharp and crisp sound is perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The softer and quieter sound of the Dolphin switch provides a more subtle typing experience that won't disrupt those around you.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. With a medium-heavy typing force and tactile bumps, these switches provide a satisfyingly tactile and responsive feel that immerses you in your typing. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, these switches deliver a sleek and seamless typing sensation that is sure to enhance your overall typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a loud and crunchy typing experience with distinct tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth and polished feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is the better choice for you. Both switches offer a medium-heavy actuation force, providing a substantial feel that balances precision with a satisfying press. Whether you choose the Box Jade or the Dolphin switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the perfect choice for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing a satisfying and engaging experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent switch that is great for office environments or anywhere noise levels are a concern, the Durock Dolphin linear switches are an excellent option. With a medium-heavy actuation force and a smooth, polished feel, the Dolphins provide a precise and satisfying typing experience without the added noise. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preference for sound, feel, and environment in which you'll be using them.
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