Durock Dolphin vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Durock Dolphin and KTT Lightning mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that they each offer unique characteristics suited for different preferences and environments. On one hand, the Durock Dolphins are silent switches with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, providing a balanced feel that is ideal for those seeking precision and a bit more resistance. These switches are perfect for office environments or any workspace where noise levels matter, offering a polished, muted, and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightnings are known for their speed, making them an excellent choice for competitive gaming or fast typing scenarios where milliseconds can make a difference. With a clacky sound profile and a slick type feel, these switches offer a high-pitched, chirpy, subtle, and polished typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Lightning, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Visually, the translucency of polycarbonate adds a unique aesthetic element to the switches, further enhancing their appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dolphin and Lightning switches feature nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder materials. This characteristic gives the switches a mellower and rounder sound, creating a different typing experience compared to switches with a stiffer bottom housing material. Despite the difference in the top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches results in distinct qualities attributed to each part. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This split allows for a dynamic typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Dolphin and KTT Lightning contributes to their individual sound profiles and typing feel, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that the Dolphin requires no specified actuation force while the Lightning requires 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Dolphin requires 62 grams, whereas the Lightning requires 50 grams. This makes the Lightning switch lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Dolphin switch. The difference in weight between the two switches can impact typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more significant typing feel. As a result, those looking for a lighter typing experience may opt for the KTT Lightning switch, while those seeking a heavier push feel may prefer the Durock Dolphin switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. In this case, the Dolphin switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lightning switch. Generally, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for some users who prefer more depth when pressing keys. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance can be advantageous for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on the user's personal preference. Whether you choose the Dolphin or Lightning switch, you can expect a similar result in terms of their linear switch functionality.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch produces a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound when pressed, offering a more sharp and percussive sound profile. Depending on personal preference and the environment where the keyboard will be used, users can choose between the quieter and bass-heavy sound of the Dolphin or the sharper and more distinctive sound of the Lightning.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is characterized as having a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. Both switches offer a polished finish, contributing to a sleek typing experience, but the Dolphin may offer a slightly more substantial feel due to its medium-heavy actuation force of 62g.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is a great choice for those seeking a silent and precise typing experience with a bit more resistance, making it ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is perfect for users who value speed and responsiveness, with a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile that can help improve gaming performance. Depending on individual preferences and typing habits, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards can find a switch that suits their needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider your environment and personal preference. If you prioritize a silent workspace and prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value speed and a light typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Lightning could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and workspace requirements.
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