Durock Dolphin vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Gold Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. The Dolphin is a linear switch that offers a silent typing experience, making it perfect for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press with a bit more resistance, ideal for those who prefer a switch that offers precision. On the other hand, the Gold Brown is a tactile switch that provides a slight, satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. While not completely silent, it offers a softer sound profile compared to most switches. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal to different types of users, so it ultimately depends on what you are looking for in a switch. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and TTC Gold Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic material. This results in a more resonant sound, making them ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal, providing consistency in performance and appearance.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Durock Dolphin and TTC Gold Brown utilize nylon, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. This material choice in the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by enhancing the tactile feedback and creating a more satisfying sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings of the Durock Dolphin and TTC Gold Brown differ in material, they each bring unique qualities to the switches. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a balanced tactile experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a harmonious blend of tactile feedback and sound profiles for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Dolphin has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Gold Brown's 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Dolphin at 62 grams and the Gold Brown at 63 grams. The Dolphin offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a smoother typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Gold Brown provides a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances, the Dolphin offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for fast response times may prefer the Dolphin, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Gold Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 provides a muted and low-pitched typing experience, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile suitable for various settings. The choice of board and keycaps can also affect the overall sound produced by these switches, but both options are relatively quiet compared to other mechanical switches.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This indicates reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a quality feel during typing. Conversely, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a mild, buttery typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Gold Brown switch also falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of both sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin is best suited for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, while the Gold Brown offers a balanced and versatile option with a slight bump and moderate weightiness. Both switches have their strengths, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you work in a quiet office setting or value a softer, more muted typing experience, the Dolphin may be the better choice for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force and polished feel provide a balance of precision and satisfaction while keeping noise levels low. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, the Gold Brown offers a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences and the environment in which you will be using them.
Mentioned in this article
