Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider their unique features and characteristics. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for quiet office environments or workspaces where noise levels need to be minimized. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a substantial feel that offers both precision and a satisfying press, making it suitable for those who prefer a switch with more resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out as an affordable option that does not compromise on quality. This all-POM switch boasts a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, providing a buttery and creamy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Smoothie both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both materials are known for their pleasing and unique sound qualities. In terms of aesthetics, the Dolphin's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the Smoothie's POM housing offers a more classic and sleek look.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches differ in material but share similar sound characteristics. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing offers a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. Despite the differences in material, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective bottom housings contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Dolphin and the Smoothie, it's clear that each housing material brings unique qualities to the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the clearer and sharper sound of the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and more muted sound of the Smoothie's POM top housing, both switches offer a premium typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and Gateron Smoothie linear switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to compare to the Gateron Smoothie which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the Durock Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie's bottom out force is unavailable. In terms of weight, the actuation force of the Gateron Smoothie suggests it is lighter compared to the Durock Dolphin, making it potentially better for longer typing sessions or gaming. The Durock Dolphin, with its higher bottom out force, may provide a more robust typing experience for those who prefer a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular among gamers for faster response times. The Dolphin switch is slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Smoothie switch, which may result in a slightly more pronounced keypress feel. However, both switches offer a similar level of responsiveness due to their relatively short travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a thocky sound that has a deep and satisfying tone, along with a more subdued sound compared to other switches. Both switches provide a unique sound signature that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Dolphin leaning towards a quieter sound and the Smoothie offering a more satisfying deep tone.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Meanwhile, the Gateron Smoothie is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation with each keystroke. Both switches offer a premium feel that can elevate the typing experience, with the Dolphin focusing on smoothness and refinement, while the Smoothie emphasizes a buttery and silky typing feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch each offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a muted and low-pitched sound with a polished feel, ideal for those looking for a quieter and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie delivers a thocky sound and a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, catering to users who prefer a more satisfying and smooth typing sensation. While the switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics, both provide high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a premium typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, your choice should be based on your specific preferences and needs. If you value a switch with a bit more resistance and a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Dolphin is the way to go. The Dolphins are ideal for office environments or any workspace where noise levels matter, offering a muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that provides a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie is the perfect option. The Smoothie has a unique all-POM construction that shatters the price barrier without compromising on quality, providing a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your sound and feel preferences, as both switches offer impressive qualities that cater to different user preferences.
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