Durock Dolphin vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it's apparent that they both offer unique features that cater to specific preferences. The Dolphin stands out for its silent operation, making it a great choice for quiet work environments, while the Polaris Gray is favored for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. The Dolphin's medium-heavy actuation force of 62g provides a satisfying press with a bit more resistance, appealing to those who value precision. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is categorized as having a 'Thocky' and 'Polished' feel, providing a different typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches.
Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, the Durock Dolphin and SP-Star Polaris Gray differ in their bottom housing material. The split between the bottom and top housing materials means that the qualities each material brings to the switch will be felt differently when typing. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in housing materials can lead to variations in typing experience and sound profile between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Polaris Gray may come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. The Dolphin's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with a sharp, crisp sound and a deep, full sound upon bottoming out. Meanwhile, the Polaris Gray's consistent use of polycarbonate housing throughout provides a clear and resonant sound profile without the added sound absorption of nylon. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is clear that both switches have an actuation force of None grams. However, the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium weight option, while the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier at a medium-heavy weight. This means that the Dolphin will offer a lighter typing experience compared to the Polaris Gray, which may appeal to users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray provides a slightly stronger push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, the Dolphin has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Dolphin's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Polaris Gray's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Gray being slightly closer to the standard 4.0 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference based on individual typing or gaming style.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 best known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and thocky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback for users who enjoy a bit of noise while typing. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Dolphin leaning towards a more subdued sound and the Polaris Gray offering a more pronounced and satisfying click.
When it comes to feel, the Dolphin switch is praised for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. Conversely, the Polaris Gray switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone for most users. Both switches are noted for their polished feel, which leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Dolphin switch provides a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, balancing precision with a satisfying press, while the Polaris Gray switch offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Dolphin switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced click and a bouncy typing feel, the Polaris Gray switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches provide a polished feel, making them suitable for users who value smooth key travel. Consider your personal preferences and workspace environment when choosing between these two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and noise level. If you are looking for a switch with a bit more resistance and a clean, muted sound profile, the Durock Dolphin may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray could be the better option. Both switches offer a polished feel, but the Dolphin has a medium actuation force while the Polaris Gray leans towards medium-heavy. Consider these factors when making your decision for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Mentioned in this article
