Durock Dolphin vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Cream Yellow offer distinct experiences for users. The Durock Dolphin, a linear switch, is favored for its silent operation, making it perfect for office settings or anywhere noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches provide a satisfying press that strikes a balance between precision and resistance. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, offers a different tactile feedback experience. While details about its noise levels are not provided, this switch is categorized differently with its unique characteristics. When considering which switch to go for, determining your preference for silent operation or tactile feedback is crucial. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Outemu Cream Yellow switches differ in terms of the material used. The Dolphin features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. The choice of housing material significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch, with polycarbonate offering a clearer and resonant sound ideal for RGB lighting, while nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Dolphin and the Cream Yellow switches share a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches are likely to produce a similar bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. The differences in the top housing materials may still lead to variations in sound when releasing a key, as the qualities of each material will impact the overall sound profile differently.
The split between the top and bottom housing material of a switch plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by each housing material affect both the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches, the contrasting materials used in their top housing result in distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate offering a sharper sound and nylon providing a deeper sound. Ultimately, the choice of housing material is essential for achieving the desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Dolphin switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Cream Yellow switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, with the Dolphin having an unspecified amount and the Cream Yellow having an actuation force of 45 grams. The difference in bottom out force means that the Cream Yellow switch may provide a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Dolphin switch. However, both switches fall within the medium force category, making them suitable for users who prefer a balance between a light and heavy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dolphin. Both fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the Dolphin may offer a slightly deeper key press experience due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for 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 Outemu Cream Yellow 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 Dolphin linear switch is known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for quieter environments. The medium-heavy actuation force of 62g provides a balance of precision and tactile satisfaction, appealing to those who prefer switches with a bit more resistance. The sound produced by the Dolphin is characterized as muted and low-pitched, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to clackier switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it is difficult to compare in this aspect.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dolphin is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished finish reduces friction and provides a sleek key travel, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description available for the Cream Yellow switch, so it is challenging to assess how it compares to the Dolphin in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch stands out for its silent operation, medium-heavy actuation force, muted and low-pitched sound profile, and polished feel. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is limited, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. If you are looking for a switch with similar qualities to the Dolphin, such as silence and a polished feel, it may be worth exploring other linear options with a medium-heavy actuation force. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, you'll want to consider your preference for noise levels and actuation force. If you value a quieter typing experience and prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Dolphin switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a tactile feedback and a medium actuation force, the Outemu Cream Yellow switches may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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