Durock Dolphin vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Gold Red Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Dolphin is a linear switch that is best known for its silent operation, making it perfect for office settings or anywhere noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a balance of precision and satisfaction during key presses. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro is also a linear switch but stands out for its versatility and ease of press, accommodating a wide range of user preferences. It offers a neutral sound signature and is suitable for various environments, from gaming to office tasks. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and TTC Gold Red Pro switches both utilize polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them suitable for users who prefer a clearer and more resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects. However, while both switches share this commonality in their top housings, they have different bottom housings. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing also offers a similar typing experience, making them comparable in this aspect.
Despite having similar top housings, the Durock Dolphin and TTC Gold Red Pro switches diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin contributes to a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the crisper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing. This contrast in sound quality between the top and bottom housings may appeal to users who appreciate a more varied typing experience. Conversely, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a similarly deep and full sound, aligning with the characteristics of the Dolphin's bottom housing. This similarity in sound profile indicates that users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of sound when using these switches.
In analyzing the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the bottom housing tends to influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the contrasting bottom housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and TTC Gold Red Pro switches may result in noticeable differences in typing experiences, despite their similar top housings. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their preference for sound profiles and the overall typing feel they desire.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Gold Red Pro's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dolphin requires 62 grams which is medium while the Gold Red Pro's force is unavailable. This means that the Dolphin switch offers a lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, but a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial feel. The Gold Red Pro, on the other hand, provides a slightly heavier actuation force, but the bottom out force is unknown. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel - with the Dolphin being lighter and the Gold Red Pro potentially offering a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance before actuation. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results when typing or gaming with either switch. The fact that both switches have identical travel distances makes them equally suitable choices for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their switches.
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 Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 quieter typing experience suitable for quieter environments. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, offering a deep and rich sound profile that is still harmonious for a variety of settings. Both switches excel in different sound qualities, catering to users with varying preferences in the auditory experience they seek.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Dolphin and TTC Gold Red Pro linear switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Gold Red Pro is noted for its silky, mild, and subtle qualities, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with gentle resistance and a gentle sound signature suitable for shared spaces. While both switches share the polished attribute, the Gold Red Pro offers a slightly more varied feel profile, accommodating users who prefer a gentler typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a muted and low-pitched sound with a substantial feel, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gold Red Pro's neutral sound profile and versatile feel make it a fitting choice for a wide range of environments and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you value a silent typing experience and prefer a switch with a bit more resistance, the Durock Dolphin may be the better choice for office settings or quieter workspaces. On the other hand, if you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the TTC Gold Red Pro may be more suitable for a variety of settings including gaming, office work, or leisurely typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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