Durock Dolphin vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and Dareu Dream mechanical keyboard switches, one immediately notices the key differences in their characteristics. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, providing a balanced feel that combines precision with a satisfying press. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a switch with a bit more resistance and enjoy a polished, muted, and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream is a light linear switch that stands out for its affordability, making it a popular option among enthusiasts. With its easy-to-press keys and clacky sound profile, it offers a mild typing experience that caters to those looking for a budget-friendly option. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Dream have some similarities as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Both switches will deliver similar sound profiles and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Dolphin features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, which means it absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will play a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Both the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Dream offer a unique typing experience by combining different materials in their housing design, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, but no information is available about its bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Dolphin is heavier due to its 62-gram bottom out force, while the Dream is lighter with a 40-gram actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dream switch for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Dolphin switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch. The Dolphin offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Dream switch provides a bit more depth when pressing down on a key, which some users may find more comfortable for typing longer documents. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer quality performance, with the Dolphin being slightly shorter and the Dream being slightly longer in travel distance.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it ideal for quiet environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch produces a sharp and clacky sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced and lively typing sound. While sound can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard frame and keycaps used, these descriptions provide a general idea of the auditory differences between the two switches.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel contributes to a sleek and comfortable typing experience, perfect for users who prefer a more refined tactility. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is described as easy-to-press with a mild typing feel, offering minimal resistance and gentle activation. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is best suited for those who prioritize a quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished feel. In contrast, the Dareu Dream linear switch caters to users looking for an affordable, light linear switch with a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and while they differ in sound and feel, users can expect comparable levels of quality and performance from either option. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the Dareu Dream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, then the Durock Dolphin switch would be a great choice for you, especially in a work environment where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a light actuation force and a clacky sound profile, the Dareu Dream switch might be the better fit for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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