Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver 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 Silver mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences that cater to different preferences and needs. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it offers a satisfying press with a bit more resistance, perfect for those who prefer a precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver is a linear switch designed for gaming, offering a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm for lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive edge. The G Pro Silver switches also feature vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for an immersive gaming experience. Ultimately, the Durock Dolphin is ideal for those looking for a quiet and precise typing experience, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver shines in gaming setups with its speed and performance-enhancing features. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver utilize polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in other aspects of their housing.
On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience that prioritizes sound quality and feel. This difference in bottom housing materials may contribute to the overall typing experience on each switch.
Overall, while the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their choice of bottom housing materials. The qualities of polycarbonate and nylon contribute to the sound profile and typing feel of each switch, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Silver's 50 grams. However, the actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Dolphin is unknown. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Dolphin. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter G Pro 3.0 Silver for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier Dolphin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we find that the Dolphin has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance. The Dolphin with its longer 3.8 mm travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press, providing a more substantial feeling when typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's shorter 3.4 mm travel distance appeals to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer or shorter travel distance to achieve optimal typing satisfaction.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, ideal for those looking for a quieter mechanical keyboard switch. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exciting auditory element to your gaming sessions. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Dolphin emphasizing a muted sound and the G Pro 3.0 Silver focusing on a bass-heavy and rich tone.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is characterized as buttery and creamy, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches prioritize a smooth keystroke experience, with the Dolphin focusing on a polished finish for sleek typing, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver emphasizes a buttery and creamy feel for effortless typing.
Considering the available information, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is best suited for users seeking a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch caters to gamers looking for unmatched value, lightning-fast responsiveness, and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile. If you are looking for a switch that prioritizes quietness and precision, the Dolphin is the way to go. If you prioritize gaming performance, value, and a rich sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you can achieve similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is silent and offers a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin is an excellent choice, especially for office environments or if you prefer a bit more resistance in your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking a budget-friendly switch with a lighter actuation force and faster responsiveness, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is a great option. With its shorter travel distance and enhanced RGB lighting, it provides a competitive edge without compromising on performance. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a satisfying typing experience or gaming performance.
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