Durock Dolphin vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments such as offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press and a balanced precision. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of resistance when pressed, providing a comfortable typing experience with a precise feel. Both switches are designed to be quiet, but the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', while the Silent Bluish White (V2) is described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Muted', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences and typing habits. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. The use of polycarbonate in both switches allows for a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material used in each switch. The Dolphin features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which further emphasizes the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with this material.
Overall, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in switches like the Durock Dolphin and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) affects the sound profile and feel of the switch differently. While the bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Despite this nuanced difference, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, contributing to an overall satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch features a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium level of resistance when fully pressed. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press down completely. While the actuation force of the Dolphin is unknown, the Silent Bluish White (V2) requires 42 grams to trigger a keystroke, which is lighter compared to the Dolphin's potential unknown actuation force. This makes the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin switch may be favored by users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing feel and keypress resistance.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Dolphin has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Bluish White. Both switches fall within the range of short travel distances, making them suitable for users looking for quick and responsive keystrokes. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Silent Bluish White for faster response times, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Dolphin. 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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches are described as muted, meaning they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. However, the Dolphin switch is also noted for its low-pitched sound, which may be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to the Silent Bluish White (V2). Additionally, it's important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Silent Bluish White (V2) switch also has a mild tactile feel, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Moreover, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is noted for its stepped tactile feel, which may feel more mild compared to hyper-tactile switches.
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dolphin switch is tailored towards those who prefer a switch with medium-heavy actuation force and a muted, low-pitched sound. Additionally, its polished feel provides a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is ideal for individuals seeking a medium tactile feel with a quiet sound profile. Its buttery and mild characteristics offer a comfortable typing experience, making it suitable for office or shared living spaces. Ultimately, depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a silent typing experience for an office or shared workspace, the Durock Dolphins with their medium-heavy actuation force may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile feel with a quieter typing sound, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer a polished and refined typing experience, but your decision should be based on your personal preference for actuation force and tactile feedback.
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