Durock Dolphin vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Zuoce Lavender both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are linear switches known for their silence, making them perfect for quiet environments like offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force, they provide a balanced feel that combines precision with a satisfying press, appealing to those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender stands out for its smoothness straight out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. Known for its crisp and clacky sound signature, each keystroke with the Lavender switch promises a satisfying experience. Whether you prioritize a polished, muted, and low-pitched switch like the Dolphin, or an easy-to-press and clacky switch like the Lavender, both options have something unique to offer. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Zuoce Lavender both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Lavender's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer distinct advantages, with polycarbonate being stiffer and more resonant, while POM provides a unique and pleasing sound experience. However, both housings are designed to enhance the overall typing experience by creating a specific sound profile that appeals to different preferences.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Dolphin utilizes nylon, while the Lavender features POM. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, POM also creates a deep and muted sound, offering a unique typing experience. Despite their differences, both bottom housing materials are designed to impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who appreciate a specific sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the Zuoce Lavender will ultimately come down to individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Dolphin creates a sharp and resonant sound, while the Lavender's POM housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Whether you prefer a clearer and crisper sound or a deeper and more pleasing sound, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to specific preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with housing materials that contribute to their distinctive sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Lavender's 53 grams, making the Dolphin the heavier of the two. However, the Lavender has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams, while the Dolphin's actuation force is unknown. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lavender switch due to its lower bottom out force, allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Dolphin switch with its higher bottom out force. Overall, the decision between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lavender switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dolphin switch. A difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and user experience when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Lavender switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Dolphin switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. This makes it a great choice for those who prioritize a noiseless environment, such as in office settings. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a subdued and mellow sound with the Dolphin or a crisp and bright sound with the Lavender.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a polished typing experience, boasting a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and seamless key travel. This contributes to a sleek and effortless typing feel, ideal for those who appreciate a premium typing experience. Conversely, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, making it a favorable option for those seeking a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
Considering the information provided, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dolphin excels in providing a muted and polished typing experience with medium-heavy actuation force, the Lavender impresses with its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press actuation. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between the quiet sophistication of the Dolphin or the crisp responsiveness of the Lavender. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your environment and personal preference. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience for an office or shared workspace, the Dolphin with its muted and low-pitched sound may be the better choice. Additionally, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force for a more substantial feel, the Dolphin would be a suitable option. On the other hand, if smoothness and ease of pressing keys are your top priorities, the Lavender with its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel might be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and typing preferences.
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