Durock Dolphin vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are often two main categories: linear and tactile. The Durock Dolphin falls into the linear switch category, known for its silent operation and medium-heavy actuation force of 62g. This makes it a great choice for office environments or anyone looking for a switch with precision and a satisfying press. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch that offers a lighter typing experience with gentle tactility and subtle audio feedback. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the MX Brown is described as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Brown, we see that they both feature nylon in their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. However, the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the MX Brown's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
While both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing, the choice of polycarbonate for the Dolphin's top housing sets it apart from the Cherry MX Brown. The use of polycarbonate in the Dolphin results in a more resonant and clear sound, especially beneficial for switches that feature RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the MX Brown's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a different typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shows how the choice of housing material can greatly influence the sound and feel of a mechanical switch.
Ultimately, the different housing materials used in the Durock Dolphin and Cherry MX Brown switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The stiff polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin creates a sharper sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the MX Brown absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound. However, both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Overall, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the MX Brown is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Dolphin's unknown force. However, the Dolphin requires a lower force to bottom out at 62 grams compared to the MX Brown's 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, offering a decent balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Those who prefer a lighter keystroke may lean towards the MX Brown, while individuals looking for a slightly heavier bottom out force may find the Dolphin to be more suitable. Overall, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of switches is crucial in selecting the right option based on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Dolphin switch would be preferred by those looking for faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch would cater to individuals who prefer a deeper keystroke feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of key feel 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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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
The Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, which offers a more bassy and low-pitched sound during key presses. Both switches cater to individuals seeking a quieter typing environment, but the Dolphin is more focused on minimizing noise levels, making it an excellent choice for office settings.
In terms of feel, the Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as textured, featuring noticeable friction when pressed. This difference in feel caters to personal preferences, with some users preferring a sleek and polished finish for smoother typing, while others may enjoy the tactile feedback of a textured switch.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dolphin excels in providing a quieter typing experience with its muted sound and polished feel, the MX Brown offers a subtle tactility with a bassy sound profile and textured feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches are sure to deliver satisfactory results, whether one values a silent workspace or a gentle tactile feedback during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet and precise typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Dolphin linear switches would be an excellent choice, especially for office environments or anyone who values a silent workspace. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with subtle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your preference for key feel, sound profile, and the level of resistance you prefer in your typing experience.
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