Durock Dolphin vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin stands out for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a precise and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is designed for maximum speed and responsiveness, making it a top choice for gamers seeking quick and accurate key presses. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, allowing for a sharper and crisper sound profile to be produced. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the switches is particularly beneficial for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects of such lighting. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Speed Silver employ nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer properties absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that the sound produced upon bottoming out a key is duller and rounder, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the top housing material may have more impact on the sound when releasing a key, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt more prominently during key presses.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Dolphin and the Cherry MX Speed Silver plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. While both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housing, the Durock Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, perfect for those who prioritize clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a more muffled and round sound profile. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, one noticeable difference is in the actuation force. The Durock Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams. This means that the MX Speed Silver requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Dolphin. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium, while this information is not available for the MX Speed Silver. In terms of weight, the MX Speed Silver would provide a lighter typing experience due to its lower actuation force, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Dolphin would offer a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal options for those seeking quicker response times, particularly gamers. However, the Dolphin switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a bit more depth when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive to the individual user.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, reducing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it a great option for those looking for a quieter switch in settings where noise levels are a concern. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch produces a thocky sound with a low pitch, providing a deep and satisfying typing feedback. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Dolphin focusing on a quieter operation and the Speed Silver emphasizing a richer auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, showcasing a smooth and refined finish that enhances typing comfort. This polished feel is achieved through the use of high-quality materials or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and seamless key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its textured sensation, offering users a noticeable amount of friction when pressing down on the keys. Some users may prefer the added texture for increased tactile feedback, while others may lean towards a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the Dolphin provides a polished feel, while the Speed Silver offers a textured touch for those seeking a different tactile experience.
When considering the subjective qualities of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it's clear that both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences. The Dolphin excels in providing a quieter typing experience with its muted sound profile and polished feel, ideal for office settings or those who prefer a smoother keypress. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver is geared towards gamers and speed enthusiasts, offering a thocky sound and textured feel for rapid response times. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and intended usage, but either option promises a high-quality typing experience based on specific desires.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you value a quieter typing experience and a switch with a bit more resistance, the Durock Dolphin may be the better choice for you, especially in office environments or if you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for maximum speed and quick response times, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch with its instant triggering action and low spring resistance may be the ideal fit for your gaming setup. Consider how sound, feel, actuation force, and overall performance align with your personal preferences and intended use to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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