Durock Dolphin vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Flaming Purple mechanical keyboard switches, we see that they both fall under the category of linear switches but offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, making it a great choice for office environments and those who prefer a switch with more resistance. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple is known for its resonant character and feathery nature, with a bottom-out force of just 47g, making it effortless to type on. While both switches are categorized as having a low-pitched sound profile, the Dolphin is described as 'polished' and 'muted', while the Flaming Purple is 'bassy' and 'resonant'. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Flaming Purple lies in their housing materials. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housings with the Dolphin utilizing nylon and the Flaming Purple also utilizing polycarbonate for the bottom. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to the harder polycarbonate used in the Flaming Purple's bottom housing.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Flaming Purple offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches enhances the overall sound quality with its stiffness, creating a more defined sound that is especially beneficial for those who prefer RGB lighting setups. However, the choice of nylon bottom housing in the Dolphin results in a quieter and rounder bottom-out sound, while the Flaming Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a more consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience. Ultimately, the split in housing materials between the top and bottom housings allows users to experience a variety of sound and feel sensations with each keystroke.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes both switches visually appealing for those who enjoy seeing the inner workings of their mechanical keyboard switches. The translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through beautifully, adding a touch of customization to the overall look of the switches. While the differences in the bottom housing materials between the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Flaming Purple may result in slight variations in sound and feel, the use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a similar level of clarity and resonance in their sound profiles, making them equally suitable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for high-quality housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium typing experience, while its actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dolphin, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may prefer the Flaming Purple. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, so choosing between them depends on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, the TTC Flaming Purple would be the better option. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper feel when pressing a key, the Durock Dolphin with its 3.8 mm travel distance might be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so the choice between them would likely come down to other factors such as sound, actuation force, and overall feel.
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 TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 Durock Dolphin linear switch is best characterized as producing a muted and low-pitched sound profile. This results in a softer and quieter typing experience, ideal for those in shared environments or those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch boasts a bassier and slightly resonant sound profile, adding a touch of poppy undertone to each keystroke. The bass-heavy tone and resonant nature offer a unique auditory flair that may appeal to users seeking a more engaging typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is noted for its feathery, easy-to-press, and silky feel. The light actuation force and smooth typing experience make it comfortable for extended typing sessions, appealing to users looking for a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch excels in providing a muted and polished typing experience, suited for those seeking a quieter and more refined feel during typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stands out for its bassier and resonant sound profile, coupled with a feathery and easy-to-press feel that enhances the typing experience with a touch of flair. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that may cater to different user needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, consider your preference for noise levels and actuation force. If you prioritize a silent typing experience and medium-heavy actuation force, then the Durock Dolphin may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and feathery feel with engaging auditory flair, the TTC Flaming Purple could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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