Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and Gateron Ink Box Pink mechanical keyboard switches, we see two linear switches with distinct features. The Durock Dolphins are revered for their silent operation, making them perfect for quiet office settings or noise-sensitive environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, they offer a precise yet satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are known for their smoothness and lighter feel, ideal for users seeking a softer typing experience. While the Ink Box Pink switches produce a higher-pitched clack, adding a unique touch to the typing sound. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on which switch suits your preferences best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing delivers a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound. Both materials are known for their transparency, making them suitable for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Dolphin's polycarbonate material is stiffer, resulting in a more resonant sound compared to the Ink Box Pink's blend.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Dolphin utilizes nylon, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing mirrors its top housing with a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. While both materials contribute to the overall sound characteristics of the switch, the Nylon in the Dolphin switches may provide a more muffled and round sound compared to the Ink Box Pink's more vibrant and clacky tones.
When considering how the top and bottom housings work together in a switch, it is important to note that they each play a role in the sound profile and typing feedback. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, are more prominent when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the selection of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Dolphin's polycarbonate and nylon combination offering a unique blend of sharpness and depth, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend provides a more pointed and clacky sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Ink Box Pink's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Dolphin is not available, while the Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range, with the Dolphin being slightly heavier in bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dolphin may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them popular choices for those seeking faster response times, especially among gamers. The Dolphin switch offers slightly more depth with its 3.8 mm travel distance, giving a more substantial feel when pressed, while the Ink Box Pink switch provides a slightly quicker key press with its 3.6 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between these switches is minimal, and users can expect similar performance from both in terms of travel distance.
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 Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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
The Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more crisp and percussive sound while typing. In terms of feel, the Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. The Ink Box Pink switch, on the other hand, is characterized as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimized resistance.
Overall, if you are looking for a quieter switch with a heavier actuation force and a polished feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter typing feel, higher-pitched clacky sound, and silky smoothness, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch may be the better option for you. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal typing preferences and environment. Ultimately, whether you go with the Dolphin or the Ink Box Pink, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you require a silent switch for an office setting or a workspace where noise levels are a concern, the Durock Dolphin with its muted, low-pitched sound may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a more clacky, high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should come down to your personal preference for typing experience and the level of noise tolerance in your surroundings.
Mentioned in this article
