Durock Dolphin vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer unique qualities to cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are linear switches known for their silent operation, making them ideal for office environments or quiet workspaces. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches provide a satisfying press with a balanced precision, making them perfect for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are tactile switches that feature a big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience. The sound profile of these switches is described as snappy, making them a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. So, which switch should you choose? 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 Purple, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their 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 utilize RGB lighting. However, the Dolphin differs from the Polaris Purple in its choice of a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate. This contrast in bottom housing material may result in a unique typing experience for each switch.
Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Polaris Purple share similar sound characteristics in their top housing due to the use of polycarbonate. This results in a consistent sharp and resonant sound when pressing down on the keys. However, the unique properties of the nylon bottom housing in the Dolphin may offer a more subdued and rounded sound profile compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple. This distinction in bottom housing material may influence the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star Polaris Purple will come down to personal preference in terms of typing sound and feel. While both switches offer a clear and sharp sound profile through their polycarbonate top housing, the use of nylon in the Dolphin's bottom housing creates a deeper sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing likely provides a more uniform and crisper sound feedback. Whether one prefers a rounder sound or a sharper sound, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the materials used in their housing.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch both have a medium actuation force, with the Dolphin having an actuation force of None grams and the Polaris Purple also having an actuation force of None grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dolphin is lighter with a force of 62 grams, while the Polaris Purple is heavier with a force of 67 grams. This means that while both switches have a similar actuation force, the Polaris Purple will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Polaris Purple's 4 mm. This means that the Dolphin will require slightly less force to actuate, making it a preferred choice for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dolphin being slightly shorter and the Polaris Purple slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Purple 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 Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched experience, ideal for those looking for a quieter typing session. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch provides a snappy and neutral sound profile, catering to a wider range of users. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, so choosing between them would depend on individual preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
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. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel, so the choice between them would depend on personal preference for the level of tactile feedback desired.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin provides a quieter and smoother typing experience, while the Polaris Purple offers a more versatile sound profile and a gentle feel with a tactile bump. Depending on the user's preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, either switch could be a great choice. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider the environment you'll be using them in and your personal preference for actuation force. If you need a silent switch for an office setting or prefer a medium actuation force, the Durock Dolphin would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump and a snappier sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your typing style and the feeling you want while typing. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and needs for a satisfying typing experience.
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