Durock Dolphin vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Lupine stand out as two distinct options to choose from. The Dolphin, a linear switch, is renowned for its silent operation, making it a perfect fit for office settings or anywhere noise levels need to be kept in check. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press that strikes a balance between precision and resistance. On the other hand, the Lupine, also a linear switch, offers a unique typing experience with its two-stage long springs, resulting in a consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound. While the Dolphin is characterized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Lupine is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific features and nuances will help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Lupine are quite similar, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. This choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate also allows for the translucency needed for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, while the Dolphin and Lupine both have nylon bottom housings, this material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials, the overall sound profile and feel of the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Lupine may not differ significantly. This is because the top housing affects the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Therefore, even though the polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a sharper sound profile, the softer nylon bottom housing of both models contributes to a fuller sound experience. This demonstrates how the combination of different housing materials can lead to a balanced and unique typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Durock Dolphin and the Durock Lupine benefit from the clear polycarbonate top housing. This material allows for a translucent design that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, providing a visually appealing look for those who enjoy customizable lighting options. Additionally, the use of nylon for the bottom housing adds a classic touch to the switches, emphasizing their durability and sound quality. Overall, while there are subtle differences in the housing materials of the two switches, they ultimately come together to create a satisfying typing experience with a focus on both sound and visual appeal.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch both have the same bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered a medium weight. However, the actuation force for both switches is unknown. In terms of weight, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of how heavy they feel when bottoming out. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a medium bottom out force, so users can expect similar results in that aspect.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for individuals seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The 0.1 mm difference between the two may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who are particularly sensitive to key feel, it could make a slight difference in the typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to those who prefer a more responsive keyboard.
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 Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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
When comparing the sound characteristics of the Durock Dolphin and Lupine linear switches, the Dolphin is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience, especially in office environments. On the other hand, the Lupine features a neutral sound profile with a high-pitched tone, providing a more traditional clacky sound when typing. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in terms of sound.
In regard to the feel of the switches, the Dolphin is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it a favorable option for users seeking a sleek typing feel. In contrast, the Lupine is characterized as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, catering to users with varying preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin and Lupine linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dolphin is best suited for those prioritizing a muted sound and polished typing feel, the Lupine appeals to users looking for a neutral sound profile with a more traditional clacky sound and a mild typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It is important to consider these factors along with other elements such as keycap choices and keyboard configurations to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you value a silent typing experience, the Dolphin is the way to go, especially for office or shared workspaces. If you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a classic clacky sound, the Lupine may be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished feel, the Dolphin is the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a two-stage long spring for a unique typing feel and a neutral sound profile, the Lupine is the way to go. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and it really comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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