Durock Dolphin vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, making it a great option for quiet office environments or anyone who values a more substantial feel while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch offers a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation, providing a medium weight option for users who prefer a different tactile experience. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and Dareu Master switches offer unique sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Master's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer different auditory experiences, with polycarbonate delivering a crisper sound and POM providing a more subdued tone.
In terms of bottom housings, the Dolphin features a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to other materials. Similarly, the Master's POM bottom housing offers a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted, complementing the characteristics of its top housing. Both switches showcase the impact of different housing materials on the overall sound output and user experience.
While the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and Dareu Master switches differ in terms of top and bottom components, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The split qualities between top and bottom housings allow users to feel the impact of each material when pressing down or releasing a key. Whether it's the crisp and clear sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller tones of nylon and POM, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, we see that the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the Master has an actuation force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Dolphin is not specified, but it is clear that it has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Master, which has an unspecified bottom out force. This means that the Dolphin may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Master due to its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Dareu Master has a shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Dolphin. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Master, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Durock Dolphin. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those seeking a quieter and more subtle typing sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch gives off a classic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy typing sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Dolphin catering to those who prefer a quieter environment and the Master appealing to users who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Dareu Master linear switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and approachable typing experience, suitable for most users with its safe middle-ground characteristics. Both switches feature a polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience for users looking for a smooth keypress.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin and Dareu Master linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin is best suited for those in need of a quiet workspace with its muted sound profile and substantial keypress feel, while the Master caters to users who enjoy a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, so regardless of your choice, you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you need a silent switch for an office setting or prefer a switch with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Master switch from Dareu might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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