Durock Dolphin vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch are both popular choices to consider. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silence, making it an ideal option for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press with precision, appealing to those who prefer a switch with more resistance. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is appreciated for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. Its soft and seductive feel makes it a popular choice for those looking for a switch that offers a unique 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches provide different characteristics to the typing experience. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing sound. In contrast, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a more mellow typing experience. While both materials are effective in enhancing the sound profile of the switches, they cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Dolphin and Meteor Orange switches utilize nylon material. This results in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile, as the softer nylon material absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder typing sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the switches produce a more uniform sound profile throughout typing, delivering a consistent experience for users who prioritize the sound and feel of their keyboards. Overall, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing.
The differences in housing materials between the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches highlight the impact of materials on sound profiles. While the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes sharpness and clarity, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers depth and fullness in sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a consistent typing experience, with a duller and rounder sound profile. Whether users prefer a crisper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Meteor Orange's 57 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to determine how they compare in this aspect. The Dolphin provides a medium resistance while bottoming out, while the Meteor Orange offers a slightly lighter feel.
When considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Meteor Orange for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. The lighter weight allows for less fatigue and strain on the fingers. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dolphin with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the actuation and bottom out forces desired for a typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the Dolphin may provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for responsiveness versus key depth.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch boasts a neutral sound profile with a thocky sound quality, providing a deep and satisfying typing sound. Depending on your preference for either a softer or richer sound, both switches offer unique acoustics that can enhance your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch provides a polished typing experience with smooth and refined key presses, resulting in a sleek and pleasant feel while typing. Conversely, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience, complemented by its polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback, offering either a more substantial and refined feel or a gentle and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches each bring their own strengths to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a quiet and precise typing experience with a balanced actuation force, while the Meteor Orange offers a softer and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile and a thocky sound quality. Depending on whether you prioritize a quieter sound profile or a richer tactile feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences and the specific typing environment in which you'll be using them.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and a more polished typing experience, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile switch with a lighter actuation force and a thocky sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing environment, actuation force preference, and sound and feel characteristics to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and needs. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Meteor Orange will depend on your personal preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for.
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