Durock Dolphin vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Dolphin is a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, making it ideal for those who value a satisfying press without the noise. On the other hand, the Koala provides a middle ground for those who enjoy a pronounced bump without being too loud, thanks to its stepped tactility. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Koala boasts characteristics such as 'Polished', 'Low-pitched', 'Accented', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Stiff'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Koala share many similarities due to both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches that aim for a distinct and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switches. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material, with the Dolphin utilizing nylon and the Koala also featuring nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
Despite both switches incorporating polycarbonate for the top housing, the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Koala showcase the impact of bottom housing material on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches contributes to a smoother typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced typing sensation, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities provides a comprehensive typing experience that caters to different preferences.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Koala highlight the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in creating a unique typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the implementation of nylon in the bottom housing brings a distinct sound profile that enhances the overall typing feel. Whether it's the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, each material contributes to a well-rounded typing experience that caters to various preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is clear that they both have an actuation force of None grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, where they differ is in their bottom out force. The Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Koala requires slightly more force to press all the way down compared to the Dolphin. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may be more inclined to choose the Dolphin for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Koala for a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on their bottom out force, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times. Gamers may appreciate the slightly shorter travel distance of the Dolphin for its quick key presses. However, those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may lean towards the Koala with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of desired key feel and response time.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 designed to offer a muted, low-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who value a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch also provides a low-pitched sound but with a neutral overall profile, suitable for various settings. Moving on to feel, both switches are described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. However, the Koala switch is further characterized as accented and stepped, offering a medium level of tactility without being too overwhelming. Ultimately, while the Dolphin switch offers a medium-heavy actuation force for a substantial feel, the Koala switch strikes a balance with pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches from Durock provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the Durock Koala tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for noise level, actuation force, and tactile feedback. If you value a quieter typing experience and a medium actuation force, the Dolphin would be the ideal choice for office settings or quieter environments. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with a pronounced bump and a bit more resistance, the Koala would be more suitable for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. Both switches offer a polished feel, but the Dolphin is linear while the Koala is tactile and provides a unique stepped tactility. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and workspace requirements.
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