Durock Dolphin vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Sky V3 are two popular options that offer unique features to cater to different needs. The Dolphin is known for its silent operation, making it perfect for quiet environments such as offices or shared workspaces. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press and a balanced feel that appeals to those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Sky V3 is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of typing preferences. Both switches offer comfort and precision, but in different ways. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Sky V3 both utilize polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is especially useful for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for better light diffusion. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, the polycarbonate top housings of both switches offer similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Dolphin features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect, allowing for a more cushioned typing experience with a deeper sound profile.
Overall, the different housing materials in the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Sky V3 provide a unique typing experience. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the use of nylon in the bottom housing creates distinct sound profiles and typing feels. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound with the Dolphin or a deeper, fuller sound with the Sky V3, both switches offer a range of options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we can see that the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Dolphin switch is heavier in terms of bottoming out, while the Sky V3 requires less force for actuation. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V3 may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch could appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, as it requires more force to bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with some users opting for the lighter Sky V3 for longer typing sessions and others preferring the heavier Dolphin for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dolphin has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Sky V3, making it better suited for those who prefer quicker response times when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Sky V3 offers slightly more key travel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular among users looking for speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 provides a muted and low-pitched typing experience, creating a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches while offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile. The Sky V3 produces a dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Both switches cater to users in search of a quieter typing experience, with the Dolphin slightly leaning towards a lower pitch and the Sky V3 delivering a more neutral sound overall.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This polished feel is due to the materials used or factory lubing, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, on the other hand, is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Sky V3's qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Dolphin leaning towards a polished finish for a sleek feel and the Sky V3 offering a more gentle typing experience.
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer excellent options for users seeking a quieter typing experience with a balanced feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a more pronounced sound profile with a medium-heavy actuation force, while the Sky V3 delivers a more neutral sound signature with a medium-light weight. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can expect satisfactory results from either switch, ensuring a pleasant typing experience whether in a professional environment or at home. With their respective qualities and accolades, both switches provide reliable options in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you value a silent switch for an office setting or anywhere noise reduction is important, the Dolphin with its medium-heavy actuation force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a medium-light weight switch that offers comfort and precision, the Sky V3 could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your specific needs and preferences, whether you prioritize resistance and precision or seek a more balanced typing experience.
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