Bsun Cliff vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, making it crucial to understand the nuances between different options. The Bsun Cliff tactile switches deliver a medium level of tactility coupled with a crisp sound signature, making them invigorating for users who enjoy a responsive, tactile feedback while typing. This switch can be an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate nuanced feedback without excessive noise. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin switches present a muted and polished feel, perfect for environments where noise control is essential, such as offices. These linear switches feature a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, offering a satisfying resistance that many find appealing for precision work. Each switch has its distinct advantages: the Cliff for its tactile feedback and sound, and the Dolphin for its silent operation and substantial feel. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
The Bsun Cliff and the Durock Dolphin both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp. This is attributable to the material's stiffness, allowing for a clearer resonance when a switch is activated. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances aesthetic appeal, particularly with RGB lighting, as it allows light to diffuse effectively through the housing. Given that both switches share this material, users can expect comparable sound characteristics in terms of brightness and clarity when utilizing RGB features, regardless of the specific switch design.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Bsun Cliff and Durock Dolphin use nylon, a material renowned for its capacity to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its naturally softer texture. This means that when typing on either switch, the sound produced is more muted and rounded, as nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. As each switch integrates nylon at the bottom, users can anticipate a consistent tactile experience characterized by a softer bottom-out feel, engendering a comfortable typing experience that lends itself well to extended use.
While the Bsun Cliff and Durock Dolphin employ different materials for their top and bottom housings—polycarbonate and nylon respectively—the combination results in a well-balanced acoustic experience. The crispness from the polycarbonate top complements the rounded richness from the nylon bottom, creating a dynamic typing sound that is both engaging and satisfying. The way these materials interact emphasizes the distinct qualities of each; while the nylon bottom contributes to the overall sound when bottoming out, the polycarbonate top controls the tone during release. Consequently, both housing choices play a pivotal role in defining the overall auditory performance of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to distinct user preferences. The Cliff tactile switch has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for long typing sessions and extended gaming, as it puts less strain on the fingers. In contrast, the Dolphin switch lacks a specified actuation force, but it features a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This suggests that while the Dolphin may provide a more substantial feel when pressed down, it may also lead to quicker fatigue during prolonged use. Thus, users who prefer a lighter touch for comfort over long durations would gravitate towards the Cliff, while those who enjoy the tactile feedback and resistance of a heavier switch might favor the Dolphin. Overall, the Bsun Cliff is the lighter option, making it preferable for those seeking ease in their keystrokes, while the Durock Dolphin serves those who appreciate a firmer push action.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, the Cliff features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dolphin measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This makes the Cliff the shorter option between the two, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key presses. In contrast, the Dolphin’s longer travel distance provides a more pronounced feedback that some users may find preferable for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, those who value rapid response times might lean towards the Bsun Cliff, whereas users who enjoy a deeper feel might favor the Durock Dolphin.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch produces a crisp sound signature that adds a pleasant auditory feedback during typing. This clarity in sound can enhance the tactile experience, allowing users to enjoy the distinct sound of each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is designed to be muted and low-pitched, making it an excellent option for environments where noise reduction is crucial. The Dolphin's soft and quiet nature minimizes the typical sounds associated with mechanical typing, appealing to those who require a quieter workspace. While the Cliff delivers a more pronounced auditory presence, the Dolphin caters to a preference for hush and discretion.
In terms of feel, the difference is noticeable as well. The Cliff tactile switch offers an invigorating typing experience characterized by a pronounced tactile bump and a moderate to firm actuation force. This encourages an engaging interaction, providing satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, the Dolphin linear switch is described as polished, indicative of a smooth and refined typing experience due to potentially high-quality materials and factory lubing. This results in a fluid and effortless key travel, appealing to those who prefer a seamless, less resistant typing sensation without the tactile feedback. While each switch aims to deliver a distinct experience, they cater to differing preferences—one invigorating and responsive, the other smooth and effortless.
In conclusion, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is ideal for users who enjoy both an audible and tactile typing experience, with its crisp sound and engaging feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch caters to those seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience, emphasizing a polished feel suitable for quieter settings. Both switches provide unique experiences, showcasing the diverse world of mechanical switches, and ultimately the choice comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a lighter, snappier feel with a pronounced tactile feedback and crisp acoustics, the Cliff is an enticing option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it invigorating for fast typing and gaming, while the medium tactility can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you need a quieter solution that doesn’t compromise on feel, the Dolphin switch is tailored for you. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams, it offers a polished, satisfying press, making it ideal for a professional setting. Its muted sound signature ensures you can work without disturbing others, all while delivering a smooth and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the environment you work in, allowing you to curate the perfect mechanical keyboard experience.
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