Durock Dolphin vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and Cherry MX Orange both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among users. The Durock Dolphin is renowned for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for office environments or quieter workspaces where reducing noise is paramount. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches provide a satisfying resistance that strikes a perfect balance between precision and comfort. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, reissued from their popular original versions, bring a sense of nostalgia and reliability, meeting the high demand of enthusiasts who cherish their feel. Both switches boast their own distinct appeal, with the Dolphin focused on muted performance and the MX Orange harking back to a classic design infused with modern enhancements. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Orange switches, a notable difference emerges in the composition of their top housings. The Dolphin utilizes polycarbonate, known for its stiffer structure, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic allows for a more resonant and clear auditory feedback, particularly advantageous for users aiming for a more pronounced acoustic experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange features a nylon top housing that absorbs sound due to its softer texture. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile but at the cost of the clarity and brightness typically found in switches with polycarbonate tops. These divergent materials influence not only the audible feedback but also the overall typing experience, creating distinct sound signatures for each switch.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals a similarity: both the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Orange utilize nylon as their material. As a classic choice in switch design, nylon is effective at absorbing vibrations, which results in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Thus, regardless of the different characteristics brought by the top housings, both switches share common ground in their construction here. The implications of using nylon for the bottom housing suggest that while the overall auditory experience may differ when the switches are fully assembled, the foundational sound quality—all coming from the bottom-out sound—will resonate similarly due to this choice of material.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in the Durock Dolphin and Cherry MX Orange underscores how varying compositions can create unique sounds and tactile feedback. While the differing top and bottom housing materials lead to individualized auditory experiences, both switches benefit from their nylon bottom housings, mediating sound absorption and impacting the overall feel of each key press. As a result, users looking for distinct sound profiles may find the Dolphin's polycarbonate top advantageous for sharper acoustics, while still enjoying the robust, muffled sound that nylon provides across both switches. The divergent materials thus serve complementary roles, allowing each switch to appeal to different preferences while maintaining a similarity in the richness of sound stemming from their nylon bottom constructions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, we find distinct differences. The Durock Dolphin has an unknown actuation force but features a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a medium resistance when fully pressed down. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange has a known actuation force of 55 grams, while its bottom out force remains unspecified. This suggests that the Durock Dolphin requires a heavier push to bottom out, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, with its lighter actuation force, may be the better choice for those who favor longer typing sessions or gaming, as it allows for easier keystroke activation. Overall, the Durock Dolphin is heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the Cherry MX Orange is lighter in actuation force, catering to different preferences in typing feel and force exertion.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their travel distances, measuring 3.8 mm and 4 mm, respectively. This makes the Dolphin the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that may cater to gamers seeking swift actuation. In contrast, the MX Orange, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced depth, which some users may find preferable for a more tactile experience. While both switches provide a smooth linear motion, the key difference in travel distance means that if you're looking for quicker response times, the Dolphin is the better choice, whereas the MX Orange might appeal to those who appreciate a bit more travel before actuation.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 excels with its muted and low-pitched characteristics, producing a softer, quieter noise profile that is ideal for quiet environments like offices. The muted sound minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, allowing for a more discreet typing experience. While the Cherry MX Orange switch doesn’t have a specific sound description provided, it is essential to note that sound quality can vary due to factors like the keyboard build and choice of keycaps. Thus, if looking for a quieter typing experience, the Dolphin distinctly stands out.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is noted for its polished touch, which leads to a smoother and more refined typing experience. This results in reduced friction and a fluid key travel that many users appreciate. There are no specific feel qualities provided for the Cherry MX Orange switch, but it's worth acknowledging that even among linear switches, users generally expect a consistent smooth action. Therefore, while the Dolphin offers a polished typing experience, the MX Orange's feel remains uncertain.
Overall, if you prioritize a switch that offers a silent operation with a polished feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is a fantastic option, particularly for quieter settings. The MX Orange, while lacking in detailed sound and feel descriptors, potentially aligns with similar performance expectations in terms of smoothness, albeit without the emphasis on subdued auditory feedback. Consequently, if a user is seeking to make a choice based on the available details, the Dolphin provides a clearer advantage in both sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience without added noise.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch will depend largely on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a quieter experience, especially in office settings or shared spaces, the Durock Dolphins are clearly the way to go. Their silent operation and muted sound profile make them ideal for avoiding distractions. With a moderate actuation force of 62 grams, they offer tactile feedback that appeals to those who enjoy a bit of resistance while typing, providing a polished feel that's smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more classic feel and don’t mind some noise, the Cherry MX Orange switches could be a suitable option. While they don't have specific details regarding sound and actuation force, their reissued nature brings familiarity and nostalgia to long-time keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, if you’re after a refined and quiet typing experience, go for the Durock Dolphins; if you lean toward a more traditional switch with the associated mechanical sound and feel, then the Cherry MX Orange might be your better choice.
Mentioned in this article
