Durock Dolphin vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Purple Click offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch that is best known for its silent operation, making it an excellent choice for quiet office environments or any workspace where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, the Dolphin provides a substantial and precise feel that is highly satisfying for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click is a clicky switch that stands out for its high-pitched and satisfying click sound. The keystrokes are light, yet tactile, striking a perfect balance that is pronounced without being overwhelming. While the Dolphin offers a polished, muted, and low-pitched typing experience, the Purple Click provides a crunchy, invigorating, resonant, and stepped feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Purple Click switches are quite similar, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Purple Click also features a nylon bottom housing, so in terms of sound profile, both switches are likely to produce a similar deep and full sound when typing.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch impacts the sound and feel when typing. The bottom housing material, such as nylon in these cases, influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material, polycarbonate in this instance, affects the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how these materials interact can help in choosing the right switch for your typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The Dolphin switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine, while the KTT Purple Click has an actuation force of 40 grams, indicating a lighter touch required to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Dolphin switch requires 62 grams, which is heavier than the 55 grams needed for the Purple Click switch. The Dolphin switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Purple Click switch offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a softer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the actuation and bottom out forces desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm while the Purple Click has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable difference in how the key feels when pressed. Gamers, for example, may prefer the Dolphin for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience may opt for the Purple Click with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 is known for its muted and low-pitched noise, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle keyboard sound in office settings or shared environments. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offers a crunchy and resonant sound profile, with a high-pitched click that can be quite satisfying for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It boasts a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, providing a balanced and precise feel that is satisfying to press. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is known for its invigorating and stepped feel, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive sensation while typing. This switch presents a lighter keystroke compared to the Dolphin, with a tactility that strikes a perfect equilibrium between lightness and control.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin provides a quieter and smoother typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, while the Purple Click offers a more pronounced and tactile sensation with a high-pitched click sound. Depending on personal preferences for noise levels, feedback, and actuation force, users can choose between these switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to their liking. Whether selecting the Dolphin or Purple Click, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience that prioritizes user comfort and satisfaction.
Conclusion
Thus, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are seeking a silent switch with a bit more resistance and a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Dolphin would be an excellent choice, especially for office environments or quieter workspaces. On the other hand, if you enjoy a high-pitched, satisfying click and prefer a lighter actuation force with a tactile feel, the KTT Purple Click switch would be the ideal option. Consider the sound profile and feeling you desire in a switch, and make your decision based on what aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and environments.
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