KTT Darling vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling, a linear switch, to the Durock Dolphin, another linear switch, there are distinct differences in their typing experiences. The Darling is praised for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke. It provides a high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out, offering a blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dolphin is known for its silent operation, making it ideal for quiet environments like offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force, it balances precision with a satisfying press. The Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', while the Darling is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals, making them suitable for different preferences and settings. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Durock Dolphin, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. With this similarity in housing material, users can expect a consistent sound experience when typing on either the Darling or the Dolphin.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Darling features nylon while the Dolphin also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite having different top housings, the nylon bottom housings of both the Darling and the Dolphin contribute to a similar typing experience with regards to sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Darling and the Durock Dolphin plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, their nylon bottom housings contribute to slightly different sound profiles. Whether it be the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper, fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing, users can expect a unique typing experience from each switch based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, we can see some differences between the two. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dolphin, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Dolphin is heavier at 62 grams, while the Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams. Both switches provide a medium typing experience, but the Dolphin offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Darling may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dolphin with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, it is evident that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dolphin boasts a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular among users, particularly gamers looking for faster response times. The Darling's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking quick and snappy keystrokes, while the Dolphin's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel with each press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keyboard feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant typing experience, providing a sharp and crisp feedback with each press. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted, low-pitched sound profile, making it a quieter option suitable for shared workspaces. Depending on personal preferences and the keycaps and keyboard used, the sound produced by each switch can vary significantly.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling switch is characterized by its bouncy nature, offering a spring-like sensation with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience, potentially due to factory lubing or high-quality materials used in its construction. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its chewy typing sensation, bouncy feedback, and resonant sound, appealing to users who appreciate a more tactile and audibly engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch prioritizes silence, medium-heavy actuation force, and a polished feel, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a quieter, smoother typing experience with a bit more resistance. While the subjective qualities of these switches differ, users can expect distinct but equally satisfying results based on their individual preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you appreciate a keyboard switch that offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy and responsive feel, the KTT Darling linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. The high-pitched and resonant sound profile adds to the overall tactile and auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished, smooth typing experience, the Durock Dolphin linear switch may be more up your alley, especially for environments where noise levels matter. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and actuation force. It's all about finding the perfect match for your typing style and workspace needs.
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