Durock Dolphin vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it's important to note their unique characteristics. The Durock dolphins are renowned for being silent switches, perfect for office settings or anywhere noise is a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, they provide a satisfying press and precise feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink switch does not have any specific standout features mentioned. The Durock Dolphin is described as polished, muted, low-pitched, while there is no categorization provided for the Cream Pink. When deciding between these switches, the Dolphin's silent operation and medium-heavy actuation force may appeal to those seeking a balance of precision and satisfying tactile feedback, whereas the Cream Pink's qualities are not as clearly defined. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
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 Outemu Cream Pink switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Dolphin utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Cream Pink's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly, while nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the deep and full sound profile experienced when typing on the switches.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can have varying effects on the sound and feel of typing. The Durock Dolphin's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a switch that offers a clear and resonant sound upon keypress, with the deeper sound profile contributed by the nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink switch's nylon top and bottom housing create a consistent, fuller sound profile with a softer and more absorbent feel when pressing the keys. Both switches benefit from the unique qualities of their respective housing materials, providing users with distinct typing experiences based on the sound and feel they prefer.
While the Durock Dolphin and Outemu Cream Pink switches offer different sound profiles due to their housing materials, they both excel in providing high-quality typing experiences. The Durock Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Cream Pink's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches use nylon bottom housings, resulting in a consistent deep sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique benefits based on their housing materials, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in their differences. The Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Cream Pink requires 50 grams of force for actuation. On the other hand, the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight switch, while the Cream Pink has a bottom out force of 65 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. This means that the Cream Pink provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Dolphin. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Dolphin switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may choose the Cream Pink. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for quicker response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Dolphin, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may prefer the Cream Pink. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and which travel distance aligns best with your typing style.
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 Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10 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 Dolphins are known for their muted and low-pitched sound profile, making them a great choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink switches do not have any specific descriptions related to sound, so it is unknown how they compare in this aspect. When it comes to feel, the Dolphin switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Cream Pink switches.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and a silent operation, the Durock Dolphin switches would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a switch with unknown sound and feel qualities, the Outemu Cream Pink switches may still provide a similar level of satisfaction. Ultimately, it is important to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and Outemu Cream Pink linear switches, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a quieter typing experience, the Dolphin switches would be more suitable due to their silent operation. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a bit more resistance and a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin switches provide a satisfying press. On the other hand, if noise level is not a concern for you and you prefer a switch with a slightly higher actuation force, the Cream Pink switches could be a good fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and where you'll be using your keyboard the most.
Mentioned in this article
