Durock Dolphin vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Silent Green mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both options offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin stands out for its silent operation, making it a perfect fit for quiet environments such as offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press and precision that is favored by those who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green does not have any specific standout features but offers a different typing experience compared to the Dolphin. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Silent Green does not have any specific categories listed. Both switches have their own strengths and benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Silent Green, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboards. Despite these similarities, the Durock Dolphin features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics like polycarbonate.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Durock Dolphin offers a contrasting sound experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Silent Green. Nylon's softer properties create a duller and rounder sound, adding depth to typing on the switches. In contrast, the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate, contributing to a more defined and resonant sound. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate in the top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials results in distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is essential to recognize that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are significant. The Durock Dolphin's split use of nylon and polycarbonate allows for a balance between a sharp and resonant sound from the top housing and a deeper and fuller sound from the bottom housing during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the housing results in a more uniform and crisper sound profile both during key presses and releases. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making the Silent Green slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. However, the actuation force of the Silent Green is 45 grams, whereas the actuation force of the Dolphin is unspecified, suggesting that the Silent Green may require slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of weight, some may appreciate the lighter actuation force of the Silent Green for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Dolphin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Green switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dolphin switch. The Dolphin switch falls within the range of shorter travel distances, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize a quicker response time or a more substantial key press.
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 Silent Green 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, making it a great choice for those looking to minimize noise levels in their workspace. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, the Dolphin provides a substantial and precise feel that appeals to users who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. Additionally, the polished finish of the Dolphin switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Silent Green linear switch's sound and feel qualities is currently unavailable. However, based on the available information, if you opt for the Silent Green switch, you might expect similar results in terms of noise reduction and overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Silent Green will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user's environment.
Conclusion
Thus, when making the decision between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, you should consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a silent typing experience for an office or shared workspace, the Durock Dolphin switches would be the ideal choice with their muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter actuation force and do not necessarily require a silent operation, the Outemu Silent Green switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific preferences and needs to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
