Durock Dolphin vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, there are key factors to consider. The Durock Dolphins are ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience, making them perfect for office settings or shared workspaces. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switches offer a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, suited for those who enjoy a satisfying keystroke without the added noise. 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
1.60 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 Silent Grey, one can see that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Both switches offer a similar sound profile with their polycarbonate top housing, appealing to those who prefer a more defined and resonant typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Dolphin and Silent Grey differs, with the Dolphin using nylon and the Silent Grey also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder tone. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches showcases a preference for a more muted and tactile typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a quieter and more tactile feedback while typing.
Ultimately, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Durock Dolphin and Outemu Silent Grey allows each component to offer unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel when bottoming out a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing the key. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Dolphin providing a crisper and sharper sound profile, and the Silent Grey offering a deeper and fuller tone, making them suitable for a variety of typing styles and preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, we can see that the Dolphin has no specified actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Dolphin is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Silent Grey, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Grey offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches fall within the medium range of bottom out force, offering a balance between a light and heavy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dolphin being on the shorter side and the Silent Grey being on the longer side. Gamers may lean towards the Dolphin for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the Silent Grey. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the individual.
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 Grey 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 stands out for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise is a concern. The medium-heavy actuation force of 62g provides a satisfying balance of resistance and precision, catering to those who prefer a switch with a bit of weight to it. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offers a quiet and highly tactile typing experience, with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke that appeals to users seeking a silent yet satisfying feel.
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, reducing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The Outemu Silent Grey switch, on the other hand, does not have a specific sound description provided. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience, with the sound also being influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description available for the Outemu Silent Grey switch. However, given its tactile nature, it is likely to offer a satisfying tactile feedback with each key press.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dolphin excels in providing a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, while the Silent Grey offers a tactile yet quiet typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both, you can choose between these switches to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a quieter typing experience and a switch with a bit more resistance, the Dolphin may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a highly tactile switch with a satisfying bump and a smooth keystroke, the Silent Grey could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize noise level, typing feel, or a combination of both. Take into account your work environment and personal preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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