Durock Dolphin vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Durock Dolphin is renowned for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for quieter environments such as offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, this switch offers a satisfying press with a bit more resistance, appealing to those who prefer a precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch boasts an innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. Its categorization as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy' indicates a unique typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and applications that cater to different preferences and environments. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Snow both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profile and overall durability. The Dolphin utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the POK top housing of the Snow. Polycarbonate is known for its translucency, making it perfect for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POK material used in the Snow's top housing offers smooth and clacky switches with exceptional durability. While both materials have their strengths, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
In terms of the bottom housings, both switches feature nylon material, a classic choice known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and more sound-absorbent than other plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Since both switches utilize the same bottom housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing helps to balance the overall sound profile of the switches, complementing the qualities brought forth by the respective top housing materials.
When considering the overall typing experience of the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Snow, it is important to recognize how the different housing materials impact the sound and feel of each switch. The split between the top and bottom housing materials means that users will feel the qualities of the bottom housing when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Dolphin, as well as POK and nylon in the Snow, results in unique typing experiences that cater to varying preferences in sound profile and durability. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Dolphin and Dareu Snow linear switches, we see that the Dolphin has a lower actuation force of None grams, while the Snow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Dolphin at 62 grams and the Snow at 60 grams. The Dolphin is lighter in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Snow offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force, with the Dolphin being lighter and the Snow offering a slightly heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Snow switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dolphin switch. The difference may not be significant, but it could be noticeable depending on personal preference. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Snow switch for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing may lean towards the Dolphin switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a deeper, thocky sound profile, thanks to its innovative POK material construction. Both switches have a low-pitched tone, but the Dolphin is more muted while the Snow has a richer sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Dolphin being more subdued and the Snow offering a more pronounced typing experience.
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. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback when typing. The Dolphin switch focuses on a sleek and polished feel, while the Snow switch emphasizes a lively and rebounding key press experience. Individuals who prefer a smoother typing feel may lean towards the Dolphin, while those seeking a more responsive and bouncy feel may opt for the Snow.
Considering the available information, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct characteristics in both sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a muted and low-pitched sound with a polished typing feel, ideal for those looking for a refined and subtly tactile typing experience. In comparison, the Snow switch stands out with its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, alongside a bouncy key press feel for users who prefer a more dynamic typing sensation. Both switches cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on whether one values a quieter, polished typing experience (Dolphin) or a deeper, more responsive typing feel (Snow). Ultimately, users can expect satisfying results from either switch, depending on their specific sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your environment and personal preferences. If you value a silent typing experience for an office setting or enjoy a switch with medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with innovative POK material construction for a deeper sound profile and a bouncy feel when typing, the Snow switch could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so assess your needs and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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