Durock Dolphin vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Kailh BCP both present unique advantages tailored to varied user preferences. The Durock Dolphin, with its silent operation, is particularly suited for office environments or any workspace where noise is a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches provide a satisfying resistance that appeals to typists seeking precision and engagement with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP takes a nostalgic approach by reimagining the beloved Black Cherry Pies, offering a distinctly bouncy tactile experience that boasts a poppy, clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. While the Dolphin excels in discretion and tactile feedback, the BCP is all about charm and nostalgia, making it a lively choice for enthusiasts. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Kailh BCP, one can note distinct differences in the top housings while recognizing similarities in the bottom housings. The Dolphin utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer composition. This rigidity fosters a sharper, crisper, and more resonant sound profile, making it particularly appealing for users who prefer a clear auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate material's translucency enhances the aesthetic experience when RGB lighting is applied, brightening up the visual dynamics of a keyboard setup. In contrast, the BCP features a nylon top housing, known for its softer and more absorbent characteristics. This leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile that can create a more muted typing experience, appealing to users who prioritize a quieter and more subdued auditory feedback.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which delivers similar acoustic properties regardless of the top housing material. The nylon bottom in both the Durock Dolphin and the Kailh BCP contributes to a smoother typing experience with its ability to absorb sound and deliver a rounder, more substantial feel during usage. The soft nature of nylon dampens keystrokes, resulting in a deeper bottom-out sound that many typists find satisfying. This consistency in the bottom housing means that even though the top housings diverge in material and sound profile, the essence of typing experience remains anchored in the nylon bottom.
Ultimately, the combination of these different materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch. The Durock Dolphin’s polycarbonate top housing, while delivering a sharper sound profile, pairs with its nylon bottom to create a balanced performance. Conversely, the Kailh BCP's nylon top and bottom housings together offer a more cohesive sound experience that prioritizes warmth and depth. Despite their differences, users can achieve satisfying and distinctive results from both switches, with the specific sound character shaped by their choice of top housing material—a crucial aspect for keyboard enthusiasts looking to fine-tune their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces, although their bottom out forces are relatively close. The Dolphin switch does not specify an actuation force, which means users might not have clear expectations regarding the force needed to register a keystroke; however, it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorized as medium. Conversely, the BCP switch features an actuation force of 52 grams, making it lighter than the Dolphin switch, which may appeal to users seeking a more effortless typing experience for prolonged use. The BCP's bottom out force is slightly higher at 63.5 grams, classifying it in the medium-heavy range. This means that while both switches offer a reasonably substantial feel, the Dolphin is somewhat heavier overall due to the unknown actuation force, while the BCP offers a lighter actuation for easier pressing, though it has a marginally greater resistance when fully depressed. Users can expect a different typing experience based on these preferences, with the BCP being the better choice for those who favor tactile feedback in their typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there's a clear distinction: the Dolphin features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the BCP measures 3.5 mm. This makes the BCP the shorter option, appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times. In contrast, the Dolphin provides a slightly deeper travel of 3.8 mm, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches fall within the landscape of modern preferences, with shorter travel distances becoming increasingly popular. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preference regarding responsiveness versus key depth.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch stands out with its muted and low-pitched characteristics. This design makes them an excellent option for users who need a quieter typing experience, whether in an office setting or at home, minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The softer and bass-heavy tone promotes a more pleasant auditory environment. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switch does not have a specific sound profile described, but it is important to note that the sound can still vary based on the keyboard build and keycap choice. Therefore, while the BCPs may not offer the same muted experience, their sound characteristics could depend substantially on the overall setup.
Regarding the feel, the Dolphin switches are known for their polished experience, providing users with a sleek and smooth key travel that enhances typing comfort and precision. This reduction in friction, due to either the materials used or factory lubing, contributes to a refined tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP's unique qualities are described as creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy, which suggests a more dynamic typing experience. This poppy and clacky feedback may cater to those who enjoy a more expressive tactile sensation with each keystroke, offering a completely different feel compared to the Dolphin.
In summary, both the Durock Dolphin and Kailh BCP linear switches provide distinct attributes that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a quieter and more polished typing experience, the Dolphin is your go-to option with its muted sound profile and refined feel. Conversely, if you're inclined towards a livelier and bouncier typing experience, you may find the BCP more enjoyable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, with both certain to deliver satisfying outcomes in their ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Durock Dolphin linear switches and Kailh BCP linear switches ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you value a quieter, more refined typing experience, particularly in shared spaces like offices or studios, the Durock Dolphin is an excellent choice. Its medium 62-gram actuation force offers a nice balance of resistance and feedback, making it suitable for lengthy typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a unique tactile sensation combined with an enjoyable auditory experience, the Kailh BCP might be more up your alley. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it promotes a lively and engaging feel that can make each keystroke feel rewarding, bolstered by a signature poppy sound profile. So, consider your environment and typing style; choose the Dolphin for a smoother, quieter experience and the BCP for a bouncier, more playful vibe.
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