Durock Dolphin vs. HMX KD200

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Dolphin and the HMX KD200 both highlight the advantages of linear switches, yet they cater to distinct user preferences and environments. The Durock Dolphins are particularly favored for their silent operation, making them an excellent choice for office settings or quieter spaces where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches provide a substantial tactile feedback, striking a balance between precision and a satisfying press—ideal for those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX KD200, known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a more expressive auditory experience that can enhance typing enjoyment for users who prefer a pronounced sound with each keypress, despite the lack of specific noise categorization. Both switches have their unique appeals, with the Dolphin prioritizing discretion and comfort and the KD200 embracing an engaging acoustic experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and environment.

By the numbers

Durock Dolphin Linear

HMX KD200 Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the HMX KD200, a notable difference is observed in their top housings. The Dolphin utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, giving it a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the material’s stiffer plastic properties. This hardness allows for a more resonant sound, particularly when the housing is clear, making it well-suited for configurations that incorporate RGB lighting. In contrast, the KD200 opts for nylon as its top housing material, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon’s softer characteristics, which absorb sound rather than amplify it, resulting in a duller and rounder audio experience.

Interestingly, while the top housing of both switches differs significantly in material, both switch designs feature nylon for their bottom housings. This consistency enhances their therapeutic feel and sound performance, as nylon's inherent properties—being soft and sound-absorbing—lead to a deeper, more satisfying bottom-out sound in both models. Typing on these switches will result in a warm, rounded auditory feedback due to the sound-absorbing qualities of the nylon material, which remains the same for both switches. Therefore, users can expect a similar tactile response from both the Dolphin and the KD200 when it comes to the performance of the bottom housing.

Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials between the Durock Dolphin and the HMX KD200 leads to distinctive sound profiles. The sharpness and clarity offered by the Dolphin's polycarbonate top contrasts starkly with the mellow richness of the KD200's nylon top. However, since both switches share the same nylon material in their bottom housings, the fundamental aspects of sound can still resemble one another. Consequently, despite the diverse top housing influences, the bottom-out experience remains consistent across both switches, providing users with a reliably flat and satisfying typing experience that underscores the functionality of nylon across both designs.

Weight

The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch present a clear contrast in actuation and bottom out forces, affecting their overall typing experience. The Dolphin's actuation force is unspecified, while its bottom out force measures 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch. In contrast, the KD200 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it notably lighter overall. This difference suggests that the KD200 may be better suited for users looking for a switch that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the Dolphin caters to those who prefer a more robust push feel due to its higher bottom out force. Consequently, if you're looking for lighter actuation, the KD200 is the better choice; however, if you appreciate a stronger typing experience, you might favor the Dolphin despite its unknown actuation force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Durock Dolphin boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX KD200 features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Dolphin provides a deeper key press, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial response under their fingers. On the other hand, the KD200’s shorter travel distance can lead to quicker key presses, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, if you prioritize a more pronounced key feel, the Durock Dolphin is the better choice, while the HMX KD200 may be favored for rapid action and a snappier experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Durock Dolphin linear switch is characterized by its muted and low-pitched qualities. This makes it an excellent option for environments where noise reduction is crucial, such as offices or shared workspaces. The Dolphins produce a softer, quieter sound that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, leading to a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting a sharp, pronounced auditory feedback that may be more suitable for those who enjoy a louder typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of any switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard chassis and keycaps, so while the Dolphins favor silence, the KD200 embraces a more energetic sound.

When considering the feel of these switches, the Durock Dolphin is noted for its polished action, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience. This quality is attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek key travel that is both precise and satisfying. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX KD200 has not been specified, leaving its tactile characteristics and overall user experience open to exploration. The contrasting descriptions suggest that while the Dolphin provides a controlled and refined typing experience, the KD200 may offer a different sensation that could appeal to those who prefer a more dynamic feel.

In conclusion, choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the HMX KD200 switches comes down to personal preferences in both sound and feel. The Dolphins excel in providing a quiet, polished experience suited for professional settings, while the KD200 offers a lively clack with an unknown tactile experience that might appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional, audible feedback in their typing. Ultimately, if noise levels are a priority, the Dolphins are the obvious choice; if a more expressive and loud feedback is desired, the KD200 could be the better option. Your ultimate satisfaction will depend on which characteristics align with your typing style and environment.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the HMX KD200 linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the context in which you plan to use them. If you're working in a shared office or a quiet environment and prefer a more muted typing experience, the Durock Dolphin's silent operation and medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams will provide you with a satisfying and precise feel while minimizing noise. These switches are perfect for individuals who enjoy a tactile and polished typing experience without disturbing others around them. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a lighter feel and don’t mind the auditory feedback, the HMX KD200's distinct clackiness will provide you with an engaging and lively typing experience. With a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the KD200 is suited for those who prefer a lighter touch, which can enhance speed and reduce fatigue during long typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect your specific typing needs and environment, allowing you to achieve the best possible balance between comfort, sound, and feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more