Durock Dolphin vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and Jerrzi Orange stand out as popular options, each offering unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silence, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise levels matter. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, this switch provides a satisfying press and precision, appealing to those who enjoy a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange is also a linear switch but is characterized by its clacky feel and lightweight nature, offering a crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. This makes it a lively choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a responsive and vibrant typing experience. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and Jerrzi Orange both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, where the two differ is in their bottom housings. The Dolphin has a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Orange also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
In terms of sound profile, the Durock Dolphin with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a combination of sharpness and depth. The sharper sound from the polycarbonate top housing is balanced by the fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing, creating a well-rounded typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange also delivers a blend of sharpness and depth with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience to the Dolphin. Both switches provide a satisfying sound profile that caters to different preferences.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on typing experience, the differences between the Durock Dolphin and Jerrzi Orange lie in the feel of the key presses. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile during typing. The impact of the top housing, whether polycarbonate for the Dolphin or Orange, is felt more when releasing a key. Overall, while the two switches may have slight variations in sound and feel due to their housing materials, they ultimately offer comparable results in terms of typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight option, while its actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange has an actuation force of 37 grams, providing a lighter touch, but its bottom out force is unknown. The weight of a switch is crucial as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jerrzi Orange for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have fairly short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Dolphin for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can provide faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may prefer the Orange with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be very noticeable to some users, and both options offer a relatively short travel distance for typing or gaming purposes.
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 Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, which offers a more subdued and clacky sound that is crisp and bright. The Dolphin switch is ideal for those looking for a more discreet typing experience, especially in shared workspaces, while the Orange switch suits enthusiasts who enjoy a livelier and more pronounced typing sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dolphin is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Orange switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light actuation force that requires minimal exertion and reduces finger fatigue. The Dolphin switch appeals to those who prefer a switch with a bit more resistance, while the Orange switch caters to users who appreciate a lightweight and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin provides a quieter and medium-heavy press, ideal for precision typing, while the Orange delivers a more audible clacky sound and a lightweight feel suited for responsive typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Dolphin offering a more subdued and precise typing experience, and the Orange providing a more lively and responsive typing feel. Both switches will result in satisfying typing experiences, albeit with different sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin switch may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you work in an office setting or prefer a switch with a bit more resistance. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and lively typing experience with a lightweight feel, the Orange switch could be the perfect fit, offering a crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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