Durock Dolphin vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silence, making it an ideal choice for quieter office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished, muted, low-pitched feel, it provides a satisfying press with precision. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu also offers a linear switch experience but stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to the POK material used in its stem. Categorized as bouncy and clacky, the Miaowu switch provides a different tactile feedback compared to the Dolphin. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Miaowu are quite similar, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
While both switches share the same housing materials for the top and bottom, the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Miaowu may offer slightly different tactile experiences due to the placement of these materials. The qualities of the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that users may notice some subtle differences in the typing experience between the two switches, despite having the same housing materials overall.
In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, the Durock Dolphin and KTT Miaowu can provide comparable results due to their shared use of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience that combines the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate with the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon. Whether you choose the Dolphin or the Miaowu, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a distinct sound signature that is influenced by the specific qualities of each housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is clear that there are noticeable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Dolphin switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while the Miaowu switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, placing it in the medium range. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dolphin switch requires 62 grams, which is heavier than the Miaowu switch's 50 grams. Therefore, the Dolphin switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, but heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the Miaowu switch is overall lighter. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Miaowu switch may be the preferred choice, whereas those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Dolphin switch despite its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the Dolphin offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth and a less abrupt feel compared to the Miaowu. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users preferring the shorter travel distance of the Miaowu for its quick response, while others may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Dolphin more comfortable.
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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, giving a different auditory experience to the user. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Dolphin being more suitable for a quieter environment while the Miaowu is better for those who enjoy a more distinct typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Again, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel, with the Dolphin offering a more refined and smooth experience, while the Miaowu provides a bouncier and more elastic feedback.
Overall, if sound and feel are the only factors to consider, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would provide a quieter and smoother typing experience, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch would offer a more distinct and bouncier feel. However, it is important to note that the overall typing experience is also influenced by factors such as keyboard design and keycap material. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and either choice would result in a satisfying typing experience depending on the individual user's preference.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the KTT Miaowu linear switch, your decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished feel, the Durock Dolphin may be the ideal choice for your office or workspace. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a switch with a bouncy feel, and don't mind a bit of clackiness in the sound, the KTT Miaowu could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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