Durock Dolphin vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Jwick Splash Brothers mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the unique features and qualities that set them apart. The Durock Dolphins are renowned for being silent switches, making them an ideal choice for environments where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, they provide a satisfying press and a balanced feel, perfect for those who prefer a switch with resistance. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches are described as speed switches, featuring a shorter activation and a long pole stem that enhances the typing experience. These switches offer a creamy sound signature and are categorized as neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, polished. Each switch caters to different preferences and needs, whether it be a focus on noise reduction or a unique typing feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Dolphin and the Jwick Splash Brothers utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while both switches share this common feature, the difference in their bottom housing material sets them apart. The Dolphin employs a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their similarities in top housing material, the Durock Dolphin and Jwick Splash Brothers differ in their choice of bottom housing material, impacting the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. In contrast, the Splash Brothers also utilize a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing highlights the differentiation in sound characteristics between the two switches.
While the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of a switch, the bottom housing material also contributes to the typing experience. The separation of housing materials between the top and bottom affects how the sound is distributed when pressing down and releasing a key. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during bottoming-out, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both the Durock Dolphin and Jwick Splash Brothers showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving desired sound profiles, demonstrating how the combination of polycarbonate and nylon can create unique typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch both have an actuation force of None grams, meaning that they both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Dolphin has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Splash Brothers' lighter bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while both switches have the same actuation force, the Dolphin provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Splash Brothers for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Dolphin for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them popular choices for those seeking faster response times, especially in gaming. However, the Dolphin switch offers slightly more depth with its 3.8 mm distance compared to the 3.5 mm distance of the Splash Brothers switch. If you prefer a more abrupt feel, the Splash Brothers switch may be the better option, while the Dolphin switch may be more suited for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key press. Ultimately, both switches provide a shorter travel distance experience, offering similar results in terms of 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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 is best described as producing a muted and low-pitched sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. This makes it ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound level that is suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch offers a substantial feel with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, providing a satisfying press and precision that appeals to those who prefer switches with more resistance. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a mild and snappy typing experience with a bouncy and subtle feedback sensation. The long pole stem of the Splash Brothers switch contributes to its unique typing feel, making it a popular choice among users looking for a responsive and lively switch.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is a great option for those seeking a silent and polished typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force. In comparison, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a dynamic typing feel with a creamy sound signature and a neutral sound profile suitable for various users and environments. Both switches have their own unique qualities and appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a medium-heavy actuation force and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, the Durock Dolphin switch may be the better option for you. Its polished feel and silent operation make it a great choice for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a neutral sound profile, and a mild, snappy, bouncy typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches have their unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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