Durock Dolphin vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Dustproof Purple offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch that is favored for its silent operation, making it a great option for quiet office environments or shared workspaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, the Dolphin provides a substantial feel that strikes a balance between precision and a satisfying press, appealing to those who prefer a switch with a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that offers a unique typing experience with audible feedback upon actuation. While the Dustproof Purple switch may not have specific characteristics associated with it, the audible click sound it produces can be appealing to users who enjoy that tactile and satisfying typing sensation. 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
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Dustproof Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound that is especially beneficial for switches using RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a unique visual appeal in both switches. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housings means that users can expect similar sound qualities and visual effects when using either switch.
On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a rounder and duller sound. Similarly, the Outemu Dustproof Purple also features a nylon bottom housing, providing users with the same characteristics of a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, users can expect the qualities of each material to be divided accordingly. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities ensures that users can experience a balanced and dynamic typing experience with both switches, where the materials used in each housing work in harmony to create a unique sound profile for each keystroke.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch boasts a light actuation force of None grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. Its bottom out force of 62 grams provides a medium level of resistance, offering a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Purple switch falls into the medium-heavy category, offering a satisfyingly tactile typing experience. Overall, the Dolphin is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Dustproof Purple is slightly heavier, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dolphin switch. The 0.2mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in the feel and response of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dolphin switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press experience may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Purple switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of key press 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 Dustproof Purple 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 offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience in shared environments. With its medium-heavy 62g actuation force, it provides a satisfying press and precise feedback, making it suitable for users who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. The polished feel of the Dolphin ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and comfortable key travel.
On the other hand, information regarding the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is currently unavailable. While we cannot make direct comparisons, based on the known qualities of the Dolphin, it is likely that the Dustproof Purple clicky switch may offer a different sound profile and tactile feel that caters to users seeking a more distinct typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch stands out for its silent operation and medium-heavy actuation force, providing a balance of precision and satisfaction for users. The switch offers a muted sound profile and a polished feel for a sleek typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch are unknown, users can expect a unique sound and tactile feel that may cater to different preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Dolphin switch would be the better choice due to its silent operation. The 62g actuation force offers a good balance of resistance and precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and don't mind the noise, the Dustproof Purple switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing setup.
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