Durock Dolphin vs. HMX Gravel

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Dolphin and the HMX Gravel each present unique features tailored to different user preferences. The Durock Dolphin, celebrated for its silent operation, is ideal for users in office environments or any setting where noise can be a distraction. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it balances the need for resistance with satisfying feedback, making it perfect for those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switches are designed for enthusiasts seeking an exceptionally smooth typing experience; their medium-light actuation force allows for fluid and effortless typing, catering to those who prioritize a quick and responsive feel. While both switches offer linear characteristics that ensure a seamless keypress without tactile bumps, the Durock Dolphin excels in quieter environments, whereas the HMX Gravel shines with its buttery smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can better determine which switch is best suited for your typing style and environment.

By the numbers

Durock Dolphin Linear

HMX Gravel Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When analyzing the Durock Dolphin and the HMX Gravel switches, it becomes evident that both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing material. This shared choice of polycarbonate enables both switches to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, largely due to the material's inherent stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes both models well-suited for dynamic RGB lighting, enhancing their aesthetic appeal while fostering a clear resonant sound that accentuates auditory feedback during typing. As a result, users can expect a similar sound quality experience when engaging with either switch, as the polycarbonate top housing greatly influences the overall sound profile when keys are released.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the Durock Dolphin and the HMX Gravel switches is constructed from nylon, another characteristic they share. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience while typing. This softer plastic contributes to a duller, rounder sound profile, which balances the crisper tones brought about by the polycarbonate top housing. Consequently, both switches will yield a harmonious blend of sound qualities: the deeper tones from the nylon bottom housing and the sharper notes from the polycarbonate top housing, creating an overall experience that is rich and textured.

Overall, while the Durock Dolphin and HMX Gravel switches feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, their combinations of polycarbonate and nylon yield complementary sound profiles. The polycarbonate enhances the sound upon release, ensuring clarity and brightness, while the nylon softens the impact of bottoming out, promoting a full-bodied auditory experience. Thus, despite their distinct housing configurations, users can anticipate an engaging and well-rounded typing experience from both switches, accentuated by the thoughtful pairing of materials that capitalize on their individual sonic properties.

Weight

The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Dolphin's actuation force is unspecified, but it features a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorized as medium. In contrast, the Gravel boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams combined with a bottom out force of just 50 grams. This distinction highlights the Gravel as the lighter option, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions, as it requires less effort to actuate. The Dolphin, with its heavier bottom out force, may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Consequently, while both switches cater to different preferences, the actuation and bottom out forces showcase the Gravel's lightness and the Dolphin's medium resistance, appealing to distinct typing styles.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, we find that the Dolphin features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gravel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the Dolphin offers a more substantial feedback feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may find preferable for a more traditional typing experience. Conversely, the Gravel's shorter travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it a better choice for gamers or those who prefer a snappier actuation. Ultimately, if you favor a heartier depth in your keystrokes, the Dolphin would be the better option, while the Gravel serves well for those who value rapid responses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch delivers a remarkably muted and low-pitched auditory profile, which makes it particularly suitable for environments where noise reduction is a priority, such as offices or shared workspaces. The muted characteristic minimizes the typical clacks associated with mechanical keyboards, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. On the other hand, while the sound profile of the HMX Gravel linear switch is not specified, one can generally expect linear switches to produce less noise compared to tactile or clicky options. Therefore, if you're searching for a quieter experience, both switches will cater to that need, though the Dolphin offers more detailed insight into its sound characteristics.

In terms of feel, the Dolphin switch stands out with its polished design, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This is typically attributed to high-quality materials and effective factory lubing, yielding reduced friction and uninterrupted key travel. The Dolphin's medium-heavy actuation force of 62g offers satisfying resistance, appealing to users who appreciate a bit more feedback. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch is designed for a smooth and responsive typing experience but is characterized by a medium-light actuation force that leans towards being lighter. This can make the Gravel feel more effortless to press, catering to those who prefer a less resistant and easier key press. Both switches promise a pleasant typing experience but cater to slightly different preferences in terms of actuation force and effort required.

In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin and HMX Gravel switches, you’ll find that they serve different demographics within the typing community. The Dolphin excels in providing a quiet, muted sound alongside a polished and satisfying feel, making it excellent for more tactile user preferences. Conversely, the Gravel switches cater to those who favor smoothness and responsiveness, featuring a lighter touch. Ultimately, both switches can deliver excellent typing experiences, allowing users to find their sweet spot depending on whether they prefer heavier resistance or a lighter touch.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Durock Dolphin linear switches and HMX Gravel linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you find yourself in a shared workspace or office where noise levels are a consideration, the Durock Dolphin's muted sound profile and medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams makes them an excellent option, providing a blend of satisfying resistance and quieter operation. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a tactile, refined feel and want a bit more feedback during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother, more responsive typing experience, the HMX Gravel switch, with its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, will cater to that desire perfectly. The Gravel's effortless keypresses make it ideal for enthusiastic typists who prioritize comfort and speed, particularly in gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. Thus, your choice should reflect both your working environment and your typing style to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more