Durock Dolphin vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Purple Star both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are ideal for those working in quiet environments, thanks to their silent operation and medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, providing a satisfying press with precision. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switches boast an all-POM construction, offering a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. While the Dolphins are described as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Purple Star switches are categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press', showcasing their differences in sound and feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 KTT Purple Star, we find that while the Dolphin features a polycarbonate top housing, the Purple Star utilizes a POM top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those who prefer a crisper sound. On the other hand, POM produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience for users. Both materials have their own distinct qualities that can cater to different preferences in sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Dolphin boasts a nylon bottom housing, while the Purple Star comes with a POM bottom housing. Nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, POM also creates a deep and muted sound, providing a different acoustic experience compared to nylon. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings aim to enhance the sound produced by the switches, catering to users who appreciate a more profound sound when typing.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Purple Star showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound profile of a switch. While they may differ in their top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Dolphin or the deeper, more muted sound of POM in the Purple Star, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience for users with varying sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force vary between the two. The Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of initial trigger force, while the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams. On the other hand, the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is heavier compared to the Purple Star's 50 grams. The Dolphin provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Purple Star offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force, with the Dolphin being heavier overall and the Purple Star being lighter.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the KTT Purple Star linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a faster response time, especially gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users in terms of the depth of key press feel. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Dolphin switch, while those who prefer a slightly deeper press may prefer the Purple Star switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance and will provide comparable results for users looking for a shorter travel distance option.
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 Star comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is less likely to disturb others in shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch also offers a low-pitched sound profile, contributing to a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, but the Dolphin may offer a slightly softer sound due to its muted nature.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch is characterized as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. While the Dolphin provides a balanced feel with medium-heavy actuation force, the Purple Star caters to light typists seeking a comfortable and effortless typing feel.
Overall, choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Dolphin may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth and easy-to-press switch that is ideal for light typists, the Purple Star could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their unique sound and feel qualities, offering a variety of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to explore.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the KTT Purple Star linear switch, you should take into account your specific preferences and needs. If you work in an environment where noise levels are a concern, the Dolphin's silent operation may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a bit more resistance and a medium actuation force, the Dolphin could provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you are a light typist looking for a buttery smooth typing feel with minimal force required, the Purple Star's light 50g bottom-out force may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and what attributes you prioritize in a keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
