Durock Dolphin vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Silent Red are two popular options worth considering. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it perfect for office environments or anywhere noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it offers a satisfying press with a bit more resistance, appealing to those who prefer a substantial feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red is also a linear switch but maintains the classic characteristics of the MX Red, providing a slightly heftier feel while operating silently. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing precision. Both switches are categorized as having a low-pitched sound profile, but the Dolphin is labeled as 'Polished' while the MX Silent Red is noted to be 'Textured'. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Cherry MX Silent Red switches are quite different. The Dolphin features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red provides a classic typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon material. The nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin and MX Silent Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in material for the bottom housing means that the typing experience on both switches will have a consistent feel and sound at the point of contact with the bottom housing. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of typing will vary depending on the switch being used.
Overall, while the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches may differ in their top housing materials, the similarity in their bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel at the point of contact with the switch. The choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of the type of sound profile desired, with the Dolphin offering a crisper and sharper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, and the MX Silent Red providing a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer different weight options for users. The Durock Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the actuation force is unspecified. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a lighter touch compared to the Dolphin. However, the bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is not specified. Despite the differences in actuation force, both switches offer a smooth linear feel for typing and gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch is slightly longer at 3.8mm compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.7mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Dolphin being slightly on the longer end. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Dolphin with its slightly longer travel distance, while those who prefer a more abrupt key press may opt for the Cherry MX Silent Red. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect similar results 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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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, both the Durock Dolphin and Cherry MX Silent Red switches offer a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making them ideal choices for those in noise-sensitive environments. The Dolphin switch provides a softer and quieter sound, while the MX Silent Red offers a deep and rich sound, known as "thocky." These switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a more pleasant typing experience without disturbing those around you.
In terms of feel, the Dolphin switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, which may provide a bit of noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture of the MX Silent Red for a unique typing sensation, while others might favor the smoother feel of the Dolphin switch.
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin and Cherry MX Silent Red switches offer similar muted sound profiles that cater to noise-sensitive environments. While the Dolphin switch provides a polished feel for smooth key travel, the MX Silent Red offers a textured experience that may appeal to users looking for a bit of friction in their typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers entering the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that provides a medium-heavy actuation force and a balanced, satisfying press with reduced noise levels, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would be a great choice for you, especially in office environments or noise-sensitive spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel similar to the MX Red but with a silent operation and a significantly quieter sound profile, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, noise level, and typing experience to ensure you choose the best switch for your needs.
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