Durock Dolphin vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Dolphin and Everglide Sakura Pink offer contrasting experiences for different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are ideal for those who prioritize a silent work environment, as they provide a satisfying press with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches offer a feather-light 35g actuation force, catering to delicate typists looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a playful poppy sound. While the Dolphins are polished, muted, and low-pitched, the Sakura Pinks are described as buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, frictionless, and muted. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that appeal to various users; 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
35g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and Everglide Sakura Pink switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, the Dolphin switches have a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sakura Pink's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches results in a unique typing experience. When pressing down on the switch, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing material, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Dolphin switches with nylon bottom housing, this means a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key, as it shapes the overall sound profile of the switch. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, providing a clearer and resonant sound profile.
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin and Everglide Sakura Pink switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different housing materials. While they both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, the Dolphin switches stand out with their nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches maintain a consistent sharper and crisper sound profile throughout. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The actuation force of the Dolphin switch is noted as "None grams," making it difficult to directly compare to the Sakura Pink's 35-gram actuation force. However, the Dolphin switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is heavier than the Sakura Pink's 45 grams. This means that the Dolphin switch requires a stronger push to fully press down the key compared to the Sakura Pink. In terms of weight preference, the Sakura Pink would be considered lighter in comparison, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which is preferred by some users for a more tactile feel during typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, we find that the Dolphin has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Sakura Pink's 4 mm. While both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Dolphin offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer this for faster input speeds. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink provides a bit more depth with its slightly longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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, both the Durock Dolphin and the Everglide Sakura Pink are described as muted switches, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to more clacky switches. However, the Dolphin has a low-pitched sound, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Sakura Pink produces a poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a playful touch to your typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink is described as having a buttery and creamy feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation with a light actuation force that makes typing comfortable and reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the Sakura Pink is noted for its frictionless operation, providing a smooth and easy typing experience.
Overall, while both switches offer a muted sound profile, the Durock Dolphin provides a medium-heavy actuation force for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches, along with a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink offers an ultra-light actuation force for delicate typists, a buttery and creamy feel for smooth typing, as well as a frictionless operation for effortless key presses. Depending on your preference for actuation force and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g and a switch that produces a muted, low-pitched sound with a polished feel, the Dolphin may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a super light actuation force of 35g and a switch that produces a muted, poppy sound with a buttery, creamy feel, the Sakura Pink may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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