Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Jupiter Red

Overview

When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, we see that both are linear switches with a medium-heavy actuation force. The Dolphins are praised for their silence, making them ideal for quiet work environments, while the Jupiter Reds are known for their smooth keystrokes and high-precision molds. The Dolphins offer a more substantial feel with a satisfying press, appealing to those who prefer a bit more resistance, while the Jupiter Reds provide a seamless and consistent 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

Durock Dolphin Linear

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Jupiter Red have polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for RGB lighting. However, while they both share this material for the top housing, the Dolphin uses nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a similar effect of absorbing more sound to produce a duller and rounder sound.

In terms of sound and feel, the differences in housing materials between the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Jupiter Red play a significant role. The Durock Dolphin's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a sharp and resonant sound upon pressing and a deep, fuller sound when bottoming out. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red also features a polycarbonate top housing but with a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience of a sharper sound when pressing down and a duller sound when bottoming out.

Overall, while the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Jupiter Red both have polycarbonate top housings that create sharp, high-pitched sound profiles, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Durock Dolphin's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Gateron Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound to produce a rounder sound. This contrast in housing materials leads to a difference in typing experience between the two switches, with the Dolphin offering a more resonant sound and the Jupiter Red providing a duller sound upon bottoming out.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Jupiter Red has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, but the Dolphin does not have an actuation force specified, whereas the Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Jupiter Red requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Dolphin. In terms of weight, the Dolphin is slightly heavier due to its higher bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the stronger push feel of the Dolphin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing style and preferences.

Travel distance

The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. With the Dolphin having a slightly shorter travel distance, it may provide a quicker response time compared to the Jupiter Red. Gamers who prefer a faster key press may opt for the Dolphin due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Jupiter Red with its longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable for various preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being too loud or too quiet. Ultimately, both switches provide relatively pleasant sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Dolphin being more muted and low-pitched, while the Jupiter Red is more neutral.

In terms of feel, both the Durock Dolphin and Gateron Jupiter Red switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Additionally, the Jupiter Red switch is also described as creamy, silky, and mild, providing a buttery smooth sensation that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the Dolphin switch, with its medium-heavy actuation force and polished feel, delivers a satisfying press that balances precision and resistance. Ultimately, whether you choose the Dolphin or Jupiter Red switch, you can expect a smooth and polished typing experience with a touch of resistance and precision that enhances overall typing feel.

In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch each have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Dolphin switch is best known for its silent and medium-heavy actuation force that offers a polished and muted typing experience, the Jupiter Red switch stands out for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, featuring high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with a balanced mix of resistance, precision, and smoothness, making them excellent choices for individuals seeking a seamless and consistent typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Dolphin or Jupiter Red switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that enhances your overall typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience and a bit more resistance in your keystrokes, the Durock Dolphins with their 62g bottom out force may be the better choice for you, especially in office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Reds with their 60g bottom out force and high-precision molds might be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer polished key feel, but the Jupiter Reds have additional descriptors such as creamy and silky, providing an even more luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your specific preferences and requirements for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more