Durock Dolphin vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are distinct features that set them apart. The Dolphin stands out for its silent operation, making it a perfect choice for quiet environments like offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a balance of precision and satisfying press, appealing to those who prefer a tad more resistance. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility and produces a unique bottom-out sound akin to raindrops and a distinct clacky top-out sound. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', the Red Panda falls under 'Thocky', 'Mild'. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is especially useful for switches with clear housings, as it allows for better light transmission for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While they both share similar characteristics in terms of their housing materials, the specific design and construction of each switch may still result in slightly different typing experiences.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Red Panda may still exhibit variations in sound and feel due to their unique bottom housing materials. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more pronounced in the Dolphin with its nylon bottom housing, providing a softer and more absorbent typing experience. Conversely, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing will also contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, but with slight differences in overall feel compared to the Dolphin. These subtle distinctions in housing materials can shape the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
In conclusion, while the Durock Dolphin and the Outemu Red Panda share similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the specific design choices and construction of each switch may still result in nuanced differences in sound and feel. The combination of the stiff polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and the softer nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound creates a unique typing experience for each switch. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is better suited for individual users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a unique characteristic of requiring no specific actuation force, while the Red Panda requires 50 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Dolphin being slightly heavier at 62 grams compared to the Red Panda's 60 grams. This means that the Dolphin may provide a slightly more tactile typing experience when fully pressed down, while the Red Panda offers a tactile response with a lighter actuation force. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences with the Dolphin being slightly on the heavier side and the Red Panda offering a lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we find that the Dolphin has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Red Panda's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Dolphin being on the longer end of the spectrum. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Dolphin. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of desired 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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch delivers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those seeking a quieter environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a thocky sound with a mix of bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out tones. Users who enjoy a deep, rich sound profile may prefer the Red Panda switch over the Dolphin.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch offers a polished typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. This results in a refined and sleek feel while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda switch provides a mild tactility that caters to users looking for a gentle typing experience without overly pronounced characteristics. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, appealing to different preferences in key feel.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. Those who prioritize a quiet workspace may opt for the Dolphin switch, while users seeking a more tactile typing experience may prefer the Red Panda switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you value a silent typing experience for an office setting or prefer a switch with a bit more resistance, the Durock Dolphin may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility with a thocky sound profile and a more gentle typing experience, the Outemu Red Panda could be the right fit. Ultimately, the decision should come down to which features and characteristics align best with your needs and preferences as a keyboard user.
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