Durock Dolphin vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring stand out as popular options in their respective categories. The Durock dolphins are linear switches that are known for their silent operation, making them perfect for quiet office environments or any workspace where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches offer a substantial feel that strikes a balance between precision and a satisfying press, ideal for those who prefer a switch with a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, these switches provide a very approachable tactility while featuring a deep and thocky sound profile. While the Dolphin is categorized as polished, muted, low-pitched, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is categorized as bouncy. Both switches have their unique characteristics that make them appealing choices for different preferences. However, let's delve 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
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches both feature polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a great choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. However, the Dolphin features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound characteristics, the difference in bottom housing material between the Durock Dolphin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is likely to be noticeable when typing on the switches. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, impacting the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, combined with its polycarbonate top housing, will provide a sharper and more pronounced sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing will be felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
Although there are differences in the bottom housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, their shared polycarbonate top housing ensures that both switches offer a similar sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches allows for a consistent and resonant sound that is ideal for those who enjoy a crisp typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in both switches makes them suitable for use with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to their performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, the actuation force of the Shadow is 48 grams, lighter than the Dolphin's undefined force. This means that the Shadow requires less force to trigger a keystroke than the Dolphin. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Shadow may be more suitable, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Dolphin. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, which can provide faster response times, especially favored by gamers. However, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Dolphin may appeal more to those seeking a quicker and more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) switch with a longer travel distance could provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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) Single 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) Single 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 is praised for its muted and low-pitched profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a deep and thocky sound, adding a unique auditory dimension to your keystrokes. Depending on your preference, you can tailor the sound profile further with your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is known for its polished design, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving the keys a spring-like rebound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, catering to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The Dolphin excels in providing a silent and medium-heavy actuation force, ideal for those seeking precision and resistance in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, coupled with a deep and thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a silent typing experience, the Dolphin switch with its medium-heavy actuation force is a great choice for office settings or anywhere noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a more approachable tactility with a lower actuation force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a satisfying feel with a deep and thocky sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and workspace requirements.
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