Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron New North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider their individual standout features. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch that stands out for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for office settings or workspaces where noise levels need to be kept in check. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it offers a satisfying press that balances precision with resistance. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is also a linear switch but no longer features a rubber dampener, providing a crisper typing experience while retaining the hallmark frictionless typing feel of the North Pole lineup. Both switches are categorized as 'Polished', but the Dolphin is 'Muted' and 'Low-pitched', while the New North Pole V2 is 'Creamy' and 'Frictionless'. When deciding between these switches, it really depends on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a satisfying press (Durock Dolphin) or a crisp and frictionless typing feel (Gateron New North Pole V2). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Dolphin Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron New North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Dolphin's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.

While the top housings of the Dolphin and the New North Pole V2 are both made of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differ significantly in material and sound profile. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in material impacts the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key.

In terms of housing materials, the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron New North Pole V2 showcase the contrasting effects of nylon and polycarbonate. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, the Dolphin's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound compared to the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. The combination of these materials in each switch creates a unique sound experience, with the bottom housing influencing the feel of typing and the top housing affecting the sound produced.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we can see that the Dolphin has no specified actuation force, while the New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, making them equal in that aspect. The Dolphin offers a lighter typing experience due to its unknown actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly heavier actuation force, giving a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a firmer keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the amount of force each user prefers in their mechanical keyboard switches.

Travel distance

The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dolphin has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the New North Pole V2. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a slightly quicker response time, the Dolphin may be the preferred choice. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for faster keypress response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch's sound profile is not explicitly mentioned, but it can be assumed to be similar given the lack of a rubber dampener and the focus on a crisper typing experience. This means that both switches are likely to offer a relatively quiet and subtle sound profile, making them suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.

In terms of feel, both the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the New North Pole V2 switch is also described as creamy and frictionless, offering a buttery and effortless typing feel with a fluid key travel. While the Dolphin switch's feel is not explicitly described with terms like creamy or frictionless, the polished finish suggests a similar level of smoothness and comfortable typing experience.

Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer excellent typing experiences with their respective sound and feel qualities. Both switches prioritize smoothness and precision in typing, making them suitable choices for users who value a quieter sound profile and a polished typing feel. Ultimately, if you enjoy the characteristics of the Dolphin switch, you are likely to get a similar level of satisfaction from the New North Pole V2 switch, as they both aim to provide a refined and enjoyable typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a silent, medium-weight linear switch for a workspace where noise levels matter, the Durock Dolphin would be an excellent choice. Its polished feel and muted, low-pitched sound make it a refined option for those who prefer a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, if you are seeking a linear switch with a crisper feel and a frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be more suitable for you. With its creamy, polished, and frictionless attributes, the New North Pole V2 offers a buttery smooth typing sensation that some users find very satisfying. Ultimately, your decision between the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron New North Pole V2 will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more