Durock Dolphin vs. Outemu Lime

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Lime mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch that is ideal for those who prioritize a silent typing experience, making it perfect for office environments or anywhere noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, the Dolphin offers a satisfying press and a balanced precision for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime is a tactile switch that provides a lightweight typing experience with a touch of tactility, making it a great choice for tactile fans who prefer a feathery light feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits, but choosing between them ultimately depends on your preference for noise level, actuation force, and 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

Durock Dolphin Linear

Outemu Lime Tactile

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and Outemu Lime switches offer unique sound profiles and characteristics due to their different compositions. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiff nature that resonates sound effectively. In contrast, the Lime's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct sound experiences based on the materials used in their top housings.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Dolphin and Lime switches feature nylon materials. This choice results in a deeper sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing sound and creating a fuller tone. The similarity in bottom housing materials between the two switches ensures that the typing experience remains consistent in terms of sound and feel. While the top housing may influence the sound when releasing a key, the qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing have a more significant impact on the overall typing experience, such as the bottom-out sound and feel.

Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and Outemu Lime switches showcase the importance of material composition in sound production. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin offers a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Lime produces a deeper and fuller tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a consistent typing experience with a focus on absorbing sound and creating a satisfying bottom-out feel. Whether it's the sharpness of polycarbonate or the depth of nylon, each material brings its own unique characteristics to the overall sound profile of the switches.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Lime is lighter with a bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Dolphin is not specified, while the Lime requires 35 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. The Dolphin offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Lime is lighter and may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lime has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dolphin. This means that the Lime switch will require less distance for actuation, making it potentially more responsive for quick actions, which could be preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch with a slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a neutral and muted sound profile, catering to a wider range of users. Ultimately, both switches offer a quiet typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of sound regardless of your choice.

In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a mild and feathery feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions and reducing finger fatigue. The Lime switch also offers a subtle resistance and a polished finish for a comfortable and sleek typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, so you can't go wrong with either choice.

In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table. The Dolphin excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience, while the Lime offers a light and tactile feel with a gentle touch of tactility. Both switches cater to different preferences, but ultimately deliver in providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the Dolphin for its refined feel or the Lime for its lightweight tactility, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that suits your needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, you should consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are looking for a switch that offers a medium-heavy actuation force and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, the Dolphin switch is a great choice, especially for office settings where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a touch of tactility, a feathery typing experience, and a muted sound profile that is suitable for various environments, the Lime switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your personal preferences and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for you.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lime Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more