Durock Dolphin vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star RedBlue mechanical keyboard switches, one key difference is their noise levels. The Dolphin is a silent switch, making it a great choice for quiet office environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which may appeal to those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the Dolphin has a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, providing a substantial feel that balances precision with a satisfying press, ideal for users who prefer a switch with more resistance. In contrast, the RedBlue switch offers a medium-light typing experience. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
57g
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
The Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star RedBlue both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing makes the sound more clear and resonant, making it ideal for users who prefer a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Dolphin has a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, emphasizing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile throughout the switch. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice among users who prefer a distinct typing experience. While both switches share the same top housing material, the RedBlue stands out with its consistent use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings. This uniformity in housing material ensures a consistent sound profile across the entire switch, providing a seamless typing experience for users.
In terms of feel, the difference in bottom housing material between the Durock Dolphin and the SP-Star RedBlue will be noticeable when typing. The Dolphin, with its nylon bottom housing, will offer a softer and more absorbent feel compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing, which tends to be stiffer. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. However, both switches share the qualities of a polycarbonate top housing, which will affect the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel during typing.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and SP-Star RedBlue linear switch are both unique in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it has a light touch for triggering keystrokes, while its bottom out force is 62 grams, providing a medium resistance when pressing all the way down. In comparison, the SP-Star RedBlue also has an actuation force of None grams, offering a similarly light touch for keystrokes, but with a slightly lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light option. When considering weight, the Dolphin may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience, while the RedBlue might be more suited for individuals who prefer a lighter overall feel for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the RedBlue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. The Dolphin's 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for a swift and responsive typing experience, while the RedBlue's 4 mm travel distance could provide a bit more depth and feedback for those who prefer a slightly more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing 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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 stands out for its muted and low-pitched profile, making it a great choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a low-pitched and thocky sound, offering a deep and rich tone when pressed. While both switches are low-pitched, the Dolphin may provide a softer and quieter sound overall compared to the RedBlue.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, giving it a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and offering smooth key travel. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is characterized as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. Similar to the Dolphin, the RedBlue also boasts a polished finish for smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin linear switch excels in providing a quiet and medium-heavy actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance and precision. Conversely, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a medium-light typing experience with a deep and rich thocky sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and actuation force, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience based on the available information.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you value a silent typing experience and prefer a switch with a bit more resistance, the Durock Dolphins with a 62g bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a medium-light typing experience, the RedBlue switches with a 57g bottom out force might be more suitable. Additionally, if noise levels matter to you, the Dolphins are known for their muted sound compared to the low-pitched sound of the RedBlue switches. Ultimately, your choice will come down to personal preference and the specific characteristics that align with your typing style and workspace requirements.
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