Durock Dolphin vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to your specific preferences and needs. The Durock Dolphins are perfect for those who work in office environments or shared workspaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, they provide a balanced feel that combines precision with a satisfying press. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers an innovative design with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. Its silky smooth feel is complemented by a variety of characteristics, including being subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, both switches share a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in these switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting as it is translucent. Despite both switches featuring the same top housing material, differences may arise in the overall sound and feel based on the bottom housing material.
While the Dolphin boasts a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes nylon for a similar effect. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This classic switch housing material provides a different tactile experience when typing, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a well-rounded sound profile with distinct characteristics.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Dolphin and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing offers a unique sound and feel. The differentiation in housing materials splits the qualities each material brings to the switch between the top and bottom, impacting both the sound and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Dolphin or a deeper sound with the Semi-Silent Linear, the combination of these housing materials ensures a satisfying typing experience with distinct nuances.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch are identical, with an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and overall feel when using either of these switches. When it comes to weight, some users may prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Dolphin offers a touch more depth with its 3.8 mm travel distance, while the Semi-Silent Linear provides a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.7 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance feels comfortable and responsive to each individual user.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 best suited for those seeking a muted and low-pitched typing experience. This makes it ideal for quieter environments where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a subdued and neutral sound profile, offering a more subtle typing experience compared to most switches. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience, with the Dolphin focusing more on a softer sound while the Semi-Silent Linear maintains a balance between a quiet top-out and clacky bottom-out sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it ideal for those who prefer a sleek typing sensation. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild, snappy, and buttery feel, catering to those who prefer a gentler typing experience with a touch of responsiveness. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Dolphin leaning towards a more polished feel while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a balanced and approachable typing sensation.
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dolphin excels in offering a muted and low-pitched sound with a polished typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a subdued and neutral sound profile with a mild and snappy feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different typing styles and environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a softer sound with more resistance (Dolphin) or a balanced sound with a silky smooth feel (Semi-Silent Linear).
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force that is great for office environments or those who prefer a bit more resistance in their typing experience, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are seeking a semi-silent linear switch with a silky smooth feel, whisper-quiet topping-out sound, and a more neutral sound profile suitable for various environments and typing preferences, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your specific typing needs and preferences when deciding between the two.
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