Durock Dolphin vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and KTT Matcha offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for shared work environments where noise levels need to be kept low. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a solid and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable and snappy tactility, perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile feel while typing. Despite both switches having their own unique qualities, determining the best one for you ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the KTT Matcha both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other materials. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate material.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, the Durock Dolphin stands out with its nylon bottom housing, providing a distinct typing experience with a deeper sound profile. The split between the bottom and top housing materials of the Dolphin creates a unique tactile feel when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha's consistent use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings ensures a more consistent sound profile throughout typing. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their respective housing materials contributing to their overall sound profile.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Matcha plays a crucial role in defining their sound profiles and tactile experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the use of nylon in the Dolphin's bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Matcha maintains a consistent sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences, offering a range of tactile and auditory experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have significant differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Matcha has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, making it lighter. The actuation force of the Matcha is 40 grams, while the Dolphin's actuation force is not specified. The lighter weight of the Matcha makes it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Dolphin's heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing intensity and weight.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Matcha tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dolphin being on the shorter end and the Matcha being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Dolphin for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Matcha. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style to achieve the desired level of responsiveness and key feel.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 of the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a suitable option for those looking for a quieter typing experience in office settings. On the other hand, the Matcha switch is described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Dolphin offers a more subdued sound, while the Matcha delivers a more distinct and percussive typing noise.
In terms of feel, the Dolphin switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Matcha switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, offering a unique tactile sensation with varying degrees of feedback throughout the keystroke. The Matcha switch provides a blend of tactility and responsiveness that is well-suited for typing enthusiasts looking for a versatile switch option.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, ideal for those who prefer a switch with more resistance. On the other hand, the Matcha switch offers a comfortable and snappy tactility, along with a distinctly clean bottom-out sound. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, both switches present excellent options with unique characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you need a silent switch for an office setting or a quieter workspace, the Dolphin with its medium-heavy actuation force may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile switch with a distinct tactility and clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha could be the right choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider how each switch aligns with your needs and select the one that best suits your typing style and environment.
Mentioned in this article
