Bsun Pine vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and Durock Dolphin offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile switch that stands out for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing users with clear-cut feedback and fast action. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for quiet environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin offers a balanced and satisfying press for those who prefer a bit more resistance. While the Pine switch is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', the Dolphin switch is described as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their unique advantages, but 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
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and Durock Dolphin feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating 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 that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. This makes the top housing of both switches ideal for those who are looking for a more distinct sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
On the other hand, the Bsun Pine and Durock Dolphin differ in their bottom housings, with the Pine utilizing nylon and the Dolphin also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper sound created by the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the material used for their bottom housing, with the Bsun Pine providing a fuller sound and the Durock Dolphin offering a rounder sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Pine and Durock Dolphin will come down to personal preference regarding the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and clear sound, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Bsun Pine's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Durock Dolphin's nylon bottom housing offers a rounder sound. Depending on the typing experience desired, users can choose between the two switches to achieve the sound and feel that best suits their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is 45 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel, while the Durock Dolphin linear switch does not have a specified actuation force. The bottom out force of the Pine is 65 grams, slightly heavier than the Dolphin's 62 grams. This makes the Pine switch slightly heavier overall. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or gaming. However, some prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Pine switch would provide a slightly heavier feel compared to the Dolphin switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine 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 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Pine. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The Pine, with its slightly shorter travel distance, may offer a quicker and more responsive typing experience, while the Dolphin may provide a slightly more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Pine switch is known for producing a sharp and distinctive click with each keypress, resulting in a more audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch is characterized by its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a quieter option suitable for shared workspaces. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Pine providing a more pronounced click while the Dolphin offers a softer and more subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a louder, more tactile sound or a quieter, more understated typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Pine switch is praised for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating a responsive and immersive typing sensation. The switch offers a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it ideal for those who enjoy a distinct tactile bump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Dolphin switch provides a balanced feel with a medium-heavy actuation force, giving users a satisfying press without being overly resistant. Both switches excel in providing a tactile typing experience, with the Pine offering a more intense feedback and the Dolphin providing a smoother, more refined feel.
Overall, the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch provides a sharp and distinct tactile bump with a more audible typing sound, while the Dolphin switch offers a muted and polished typing experience with a quieter sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, more tactile typing experience or a smoother, quieter option, both switches deliver quality performance that will enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both offer exceptional qualities that will elevate your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a sharp tactile bump, quick bottom-out, and direct, no-nonsense tactility, the Pine switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience suitable for office environments, along with a medium actuation force for precision and satisfaction, the Dolphin switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing feel. Whether you choose the Pine or the Dolphin, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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