Durock Dolphin vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and KTT Rose both stand out as excellent options, each offering unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it perfect for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it strikes a balance between precision and a satisfying press, appealing to those who prefer a switch with a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the KTT Rose is also a linear switch that boasts a beautiful design and progressive springs, providing a substantial yet not heavy typing experience. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished,' 'Muted,' and 'Low-pitched,' the Rose falls under 'Low-pitched,' 'Neutral,' 'Mild,' and 'Polished.' Both switches have their strengths and reasons for consideration, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics would help in making the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Rose are quite similar in terms of using polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it an ideal choice for switches that plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics when comparing the top housings of both the Dolphin and the Rose.
However, where the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Rose differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Rose also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar deep and full sound qualities when typing. Both switches showcase the classic nature of nylon as a switch housing material, providing a satisfying typing experience with their bottom housings.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches is divided between the top and bottom housings. When typing on the switches, users will feel the qualities of the bottom housing in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This division allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, with the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Rose offering distinct characteristics in both their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch both have a medium actuation force, with the Dolphin requiring None grams and the Rose also requiring None grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dolphin is slightly lighter with 62 grams compared to the Rose's 63.5 grams, making the Rose a bit heavier. This means that while both switches offer a similar actuation experience, the Dolphin may feel slightly lighter when pressed all the way down. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter touch of the Dolphin for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Rose for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Despite this slight difference, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience. Gamers may prefer the Dolphin switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Rose switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style, as both offer a similar feel with only a small variance in travel distance.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 is known for its muted and low-pitched tones, creating a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for environments where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for a variety of users. Both switches offer a pleasant typing sound, with the Dolphin being slightly more muted while the Rose has a more balanced tone.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the KTT Rose switch provides a mild and polished feel, combining a gentle typing experience with a sleek finish for comfortable extended use. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback that appeals to users seeking a more refined typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a distinctive typing feel with progressive springs and bass-heavy sound, catering to users looking for a unique and substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and aesthetics, ensuring that regardless of choice, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would be a great choice for you. It is ideal for office environments or any workspace where noise levels matter, offering a balanced and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and bass-heavy typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch with its progressive springs might be the perfect fit for you. Both switches have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel, so consider your preferences and needs when making your decision between the two. Ultimately, the Durock Dolphin is a solid choice for those looking for a quiet and precise typing experience, while the KTT Rose offers a more distinctive and mellow typing feel.
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