Durock Dolphin vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, a clear distinction in characteristics emerges. The Dolphin offers a silent typing experience, making it ideal for quiet work environments, while the Shadow switch provides a tactile feedback that is both satisfying and pronounced. The Dolphin boasts a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, appealing to those who prefer a switch with more resistance, while the Shadow switch features a unique double spring design for enhanced tactility. The Dolphin is described as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', whereas the Shadow switch is characterized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Durock Dolphin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer plastic material of polycarbonate. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial if you plan to use RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light dispersion. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Dolphin uses a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing its sharper and crisper sound profile.
Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both the Durock Dolphin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches aim to provide a premium typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin brings a unique sound profile that is deeper and fuller, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to its already sharp and clear sound profile, giving typists a distinct sensation while typing. The combination of these various housing materials in both switches showcases the attention to detail put into creating unique sound profiles for different preferences.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While they share polycarbonate top housings that provide a sharp and crisp sound profile, the distinction lies in their bottom housing materials. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains its sharp and clear sound profile. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of around 62-63 grams, which falls in the medium range. This means that while the Dolphin may feel lighter to activate, the typing experience may feel more substantial with the Shadow due to its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or a stronger push for a more tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dolphin offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the quicker response time that the Dolphin can provide. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, with its slightly longer travel distance, may be preferred by individuals who desire a deeper keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter switch option. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more crisp and sharp typing sound. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference, with the Dolphin being more subdued and the Shadow offering a more striking auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a sharp, accented, and snappy tactile feedback, along with a bouncy and stepped sensation. This results in a highly responsive and lively typing experience that is distinct with each keypress. Whether one prefers a smoother keystroke or a more pronounced tactile feedback would dictate their preference between the two switches.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dolphin provides a quieter and more medium-heavy actuation experience with a polished feel, the Shadow switch offers a louder, more tactile typing experience with a sharp and snappy feedback. Choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It's important to note that both switches can deliver satisfying results, but the ultimate decision would come down to the specific qualities that each user values in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a silent typing experience for an office setting or a quiet workspace, the Durock Dolphin would be the better choice with its muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the sharp, clacky, and high-pitched sound of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, it would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the specific requirements of your work environment.
Mentioned in this article
