Durock Dolphin vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, it's evident that each offers unique features tailored to different preferences. The Dolphin is favored for its silent operation, making it ideal for office settings or quiet workspaces. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press with a balanced level of resistance. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch boasts a luxurious tactile typing experience, blending smoothness with a pronounced bump for a truly satisfying tactile feel. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished'. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Ice King Tactile, we can see that the top housing of the Dolphin is made of polycarbonate, while the Ice King Tactile features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound, offering a more rounded typing sensation. While they both have their distinct sound profiles, the use of different materials in the top housing will impact the overall typing experience of the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, both the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Ice King Tactile feature nylon bottom housings. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, creating a more cushioned typing experience compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing sensation in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housings of these switches.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Ice King Tactile differ in material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Dolphin's top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile provides a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a cushioned typing feel, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with the Dolphin or a deeper typing experience with the Ice King Tactile, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The Dolphin linear switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while the Ice King Tactile tactile switch has an actuation force of 58 grams, providing a slightly more substantial push feel. In terms of bottom out force, the Dolphin requires 62 grams to fully press down, which is medium, whereas the Ice King Tactile needs 68 grams, making it slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dolphin would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile would appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users looking for faster response times, especially in gaming. The Dolphin offers a bit more depth in its travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offers a subdued sound that is not completely silent but is more subtle compared to most switches. Both switches provide a pleasing sound signature that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch boasts a silky and frictionless feel that enhances the overall smoothness of typing. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile switch is noted for its stepped feel, providing a mild two-stage tactile sensation that adds to the typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and smooth key travel, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch each bring their own strengths to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Dolphin excels in offering a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Ice King Tactile stands out for its creamy smoothness, pronounced tactile bump, and fluid key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that typists can find the perfect match for their typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a silent switch with a medium actuation force that is well-suited for office environments or where noise levels are a concern, then the Dolphin may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and a smooth, satisfying typing experience, the Ice King Tactile switch would be the ideal option. Consider your typing style, workspace environment, and sound preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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