Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is renowned for its silent operation, making it perfect for quiet office settings or environments where noise reduction is essential. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a precise and satisfying typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a bit more resistance. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is designed for delicate typists, offering an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g for effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, the G Pro White features a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for auditory feedback. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the G Pro 3.0 White is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle'. Depending on your preferences and typing style, both switches offer distinct advantages. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. This material is commonly used in top housings for its ability to produce a distinct sound and visual effect.
In contrast, the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softness, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound production.
Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials. The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both switches results in a mix of sharp, crisp sound and deeper, fuller sound qualities. The differences in housing materials between the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White contribute to their individual sound characteristics, providing users with options based on their preferred typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer high-quality materials that enhance the overall typing feel and sound output.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences in actuation and bottom out force. The Dolphin switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, whereas the G Pro 3.0 White switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, providing a more sensitive typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Dolphin switch requires 62 grams to fully press the key, while the G Pro 3.0 White switch only needs 45 grams, making it easier to type with a lighter touch. Those who prefer a heavier typing feel may opt for the Dolphin switch, while those looking for a lighter keypress may find the G Pro 3.0 White switch more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, which is shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch's 4mm travel distance. This means that the Dolphin requires slightly less distance to actuate compared to the G Pro 3.0 White. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Dolphin due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more deliberate key press may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer their own unique feel and performance, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 White 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 White 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is described as clacky but also neutral and subdued, offering a crisp and percussive sound while still being suitable for various settings. Depending on personal preference and surrounding noise levels, users may prefer the more subtle sound of the Dolphin or the sharper sound of the G Pro 3.0 White.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is said to have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle, offering a buttery smooth sensation with minimal resistance and gentle actuation force. Both switches provide a comfortable typing feel, but the Dolphin may appeal more to those who prefer a switch with a bit more resistance, while the G Pro 3.0 White may suit users looking for a lightweight and effortless keypress.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Dolphin excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 White offers a budget-friendly option with a light and satisfying keypress. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a balance of both, these switches can deliver a premium typing experience tailored to your needs. Additionally, both switches may be complemented by the choice of keyboard and keycaps to further enhance the overall typing sensation, ensuring that you achieve your desired results with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and muted, low-pitched sound for a balanced typing experience, the Durock Dolphin may be the better choice, especially for office environments where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky, neutral sound profile for a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is a budget-friendly option that offers a premium feel without breaking the bank. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using them.
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