Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red mechanical keyboard switches, the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch that is renowned for its silence, making it an ideal option for office settings or environments where noise levels must be kept to a minimum. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, this switch provides a satisfying press and precision that appeals to those who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offers a budget-friendly linear switch option that prioritizes a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force and frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects, this switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. Both switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and appearance due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
In contrast, the Durock Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite having different top housings, both switches share the benefit of nylon as the bottom housing material, affecting the typing experience in a similar way.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with each switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite the differences in housing materials between the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, the overall typing experience may still be quite similar due to how these materials interact with the key press.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch differ quite significantly. The Dolphin has a lower actuation force of None grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Dolphin. However, the Dolphin has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, which means that it requires more force to fully press the key compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 50 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red a lighter switch overall, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Dolphin provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Dolphin offers a slightly shorter press compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Dolphin with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. This makes it a great choice for those who value a more discreet typing sound in environments where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, offering a balance between actuation force and sound level that is suitable for various typing preferences. The medium-high pitch of the G Pro Red adds a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is characterized as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and sleek key travel. This results in a more premium typing experience that is well-suited for those who appreciate a higher level of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as creamy and silky, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The mild and polished qualities of the G Pro Red contribute to a comfortable and approachable typing feel that is enjoyable for extended periods of use. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, with the Dolphin leaning towards a more polished feel and the G Pro Red offering a creamy and silky touch.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch stands out for its muted sound and polished feel, appealing to those who prefer a quieter and more refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a creamy and silky feel, providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience that combines responsiveness with ease of use. Ultimately, both switches excel in different aspects, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction from either switch in terms of sound and feel, with slight variations in their specific qualities.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, if you are looking for a switch that offers a medium-heavy actuation force and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. It provides a refined and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force and a creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch could be more your style. It offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics tailored to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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