Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are two popular options to consider. The Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it suitable for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a precise and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is also a linear switch that offers a smooth and affordable typing experience. Known for its buttery smooth keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound, this switch provides a satisfying feel with each press. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we find that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the Dolphin's top housing is made of polycarbonate, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while nylon creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in materials will result in a noticeable difference in sound when pressing down and releasing a key on each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Durock Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing offers translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. This can enhance the overall look of the keyboard and allow for customizable lighting options. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing may not offer the same level of transparency for RGB lighting. However, both switches maintain a classic and sleek appearance that would complement a variety of keyboard designs. It ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of how important RGB lighting is to the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.
When it comes to sound profile, the contrasting housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin will create a sharper and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will produce a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound profile may appeal to different users based on their preferences for a more crisp or rounded typing experience. Both switches offer a unique sound profile that can cater to a variety of typing styles and preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see some differences in weight. The Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, making it a light switch in terms of triggering keystrokes. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier. When it comes to bottom out force, the Dolphin requires 62 grams of force to fully press down, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) only needs 52 grams. This makes the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) a lighter switch overall compared to the Dolphin.
For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be the better choice. It allows for quicker keystrokes with less effort required. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) 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 side and the Milky Red Pro on the longer side. Gamers may prefer the Dolphin for its quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 is known for its muted and low-pitched tones, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by its bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer auditory feedback during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound qualities, with the Dolphin emphasizing a more subtle and mellow tone, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a more bass-heavy and satisfying thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery keystrokes, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. While the Dolphin focuses on providing a sleek and polished feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) prioritizes a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch excels in providing a quieter and more subtle typing experience with its muted sound profile and polished feel, making it ideal for office settings or noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch stands out for its smooth and affordable typing experience, characterized by a bassy and thocky sound profile and a buttery keystroke feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a silent typing experience and a switch with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly option with a lighter actuation force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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