Durock Dolphin vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Red mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that they both fall into the linear switch category, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. The Durock Dolphin stands out for its silent operation, making it a suitable option for quieter environments like offices. Additionally, with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, the Dolphin provides a satisfying press with a bit more resistance, appealing to those who appreciate a tactile response. On the other hand, the Outemu Red lacks specific standout features but provides a straightforward linear switch experience. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', the Red does not have any specific classification. Both switches have their merits, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Red, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in the bottom housing material, with the Dolphin opting for a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red’s polycarbonate bottom housing.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile, the use of nylon in the Dolphin's bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the Red's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for the Dolphin switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Red may offer a more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference highlights how varying housing materials can impact the overall sound and typing feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Red may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the use of different bottom housing materials sets them apart. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with the Dolphin's nylon bottom housing, or a more resonant sound with the Red's polycarbonate bottom housing, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the balance of housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation forces. The Dolphin switch has an actuation force of None grams, while the Red switch has an actuation force of 46 grams. This means that the Red switch requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Dolphin switch. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a consistent typing experience once the key is fully pressed. This makes them ideal for users who prefer a medium weight key press. For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Red switch would be the better choice, whereas those who prefer a slightly heavier touch may appreciate the Durock Dolphin switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force in their typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Durock Dolphin. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quick response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Durock Dolphin may be the better choice, while those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress may lean towards the Outemu Red. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience with minimal travel distance, providing a similar overall feel despite the slight variance in travel distance.
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 Red 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 popular choice for quiet work environments. The medium-heavy actuation force of 62g provides a satisfying amount of resistance, enhancing precision while typing. The sound produced by the Dolphin switch is muted and low-pitched, minimizing the typical loud noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The feel of the Dolphin switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have any specific information available regarding its sound or feel characteristics. However, based on the general properties of most linear switches, it can be assumed that the Outemu Red switch might produce a louder sound and have a lighter actuation force compared to the Durock Dolphin switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is preferred for its silent operation, medium-heavy actuation force, muted and low-pitched sound, and polished feel. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Red switch are unknown, it is important to consider individual preferences when choosing between these two switches. If a quieter typing experience with a bit more resistance is desired, the Durock Dolphin switch may be the better option. However, if a lighter actuation force is preferred or if sound is not a concern, the Outemu Red switch could also provide a satisfactory typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities that can cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering which switch to choose between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should opt for the Durock Dolphin if you value a silent typing experience and are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g. The Dolphins are perfect for office environments or any setting where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force and do not mind a bit more noise, the Outemu Red switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound levels, and usage environment.
Mentioned in this article
