Durock Dolphin vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Kang White, both of which are linear switches. The Durock Dolphin is renowned for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for quiet office settings or any environment where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, this switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback that strikes a balance between precision and comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White offers a unique typing experience with its poppy linear switch that produces a dazzling typing sound. Thanks to its self-lubricating material, this switch delivers an unparalleled smoothness during typing sessions. While the Durock Dolphin is characterized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', the KTT Kang White is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the KTT Kang White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material also allows for translucency, making it a popular choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin and Kang White differs in terms of sound profile, with nylon being softer and absorbing more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience.
In terms of sound characteristics, both the Dolphin and Kang White switches offer similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharp and clear sound profile. This is ideal for users looking for a more distinct typing experience with higher pitch and crisper sound quality. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and dull sound compared to the sharper top housing sound.
While the Durock Dolphin and KTT Kang White share similarities in their housing materials, the split between the top and bottom housings of a switch can impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound profile and overall typing experience can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch differ in terms of weight. The Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, while the Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Kang White the lighter of the two. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Dolphin requiring 62 grams and the Kang White requiring 58 grams. The Dolphin offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, which some users prefer for a satisfying typing feel. In contrast, the lighter actuation force of the Kang White may be preferred by those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dolphin has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Kang White. The 0.2 mm may not seem like much, but in the world of mechanical keyboards, it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Dolphin with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Kang White. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both switches offer a smooth linear experience with slight variations in 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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 best suited for those seeking a muted and low-pitched typing experience, ideal for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force, it provides a substantial and precise feel that appeals to users who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch stands out for its dazzling poppy typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. The sound profile of the Dolphin is softer and low-pitched, while the Kang White offers a low-pitched and neutral sound suitable for various environments and users.
When it comes to feel, the Dolphin switch is known for its polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Kang White switch. However, given the characteristics described, it is likely that the Kang White would also offer a smooth and pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing feel with a muted sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch offers a poppy typing sound and unparalleled smoothness. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Dolphin being more suited for office environments and those who enjoy a bit more resistance, while the Kang White appeals to users looking for a unique typing experience with a smooth feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that prioritizes a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a poppy linear typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, then the KTT Kang White linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value noise level, actuation force, typing sound, and smoothness in your mechanical keyboard switches. Choose wisely based on your individual preferences and needs.
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