Durock Dolphin vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing your mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) each offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and environments. The Durock Dolphin stands out as a silent linear switch, making it an ideal option for office settings or quiet workspaces. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches provide a satisfying and precise keystroke, appealing to users who appreciate a bit of resistance during typing. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is a hall effect switch that delivers a smooth typing experience coupled with a nuanced sound signature favored by enthusiasts. Known for its exceptional performance and the delightful "thock" sound it produces, the Sticky Rice switch offers a refined tactile sensation while maintaining a balance between smoothness and feedback. Both switches have attributes that cater to diverse typing styles and preferences; 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches share notable similarities in their top housing construction, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate. The translucence of this plastic allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, enhancing the switch's aesthetic appeal—particularly significant for users who value visual customization in their setups. As both switches incorporate polycarbonate as the top housing material, users can expect similar acoustic benefits and glowing visual effects when these switches are illuminated.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Durock Dolphin and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) diverge in their composition. Both switches feature nylon for their bottom construction, which is significant for sound absorption characteristics. Nylon's softer properties produce a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, effectively encapsulating sound rather than amplifying it. Therefore, while the Dolphin and Sticky Rice achieve sharpness and brightness from their polycarbonate tops, the sound produced during key presses is embodied in the warmth and roundness of their nylon bottoms. This unique combination creates a balanced auditory experience, allowing users to appreciate the different facets each material brings to their typing experience.
Ultimately, the resulting sound and tactile feel when using the Durock Dolphin and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches will reflect the interplay of materials in both their top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top contributes clarity to the sound upon release, showcasing a pronounced response that is visually bright under RGB lights, while the nylon bottom enriches the bottom-out sound with its resonant, rounded quality. Users who appreciate this nuanced contrast will find both switches yielding remarkably enjoyable typing experiences, with the dual-material construction allowing for a harmonious blend of crispness and warmth.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Dolphin's actuation force is unspecified, while its bottom out force is a medium 62 grams. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a defined actuation force of 40 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Dolphin switch, with its potentially unknown actuation force, requires a stronger push than the Sticky Rice (V2), which is designed for a lighter and more effortless typing experience. Consequently, the Dolphin is likely the heavier switch, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) caters to users seeking comfort and ease during long typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the choice between these two switches will largely depend on whether users favor a lighter touch or a more robust response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, it is clear that the Dolphin features a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference can impact the feel and responsiveness during use; gamers might favor the Sticky Rice (V2) for its quicker actuation and faster response times due to its shorter travel. However, those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke may find the Durock Dolphin's 3.8 mm travel distance more satisfying, as it provides a heartier depth that some users prefer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and actuation response.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 switches are notably silent, making them an excellent option for quiet environments such as offices where distraction must be minimized. Their low-pitched sound signature produces a muted response, which results in a soft and mellow keystroke without the typical clack associated with many mechanical switches. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches have no specified sound characteristics, leaving some uncertainty. However, given their renowned balance and refined typing experience, one might anticipate that their sound profile is pleasant and unobtrusive as well, though it’s difficult to make a direct comparison without further details.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switches stand out with their polished nature, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes friction during key presses. Their medium-heavy actuation force of 62g provides a satisfying resistance, appealing to those who enjoy a switch that feels substantial without being overly heavy. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches are known for their super smooth keystroke, attributed to the dustproof stem that reduces wobble and enhances overall performance. While no specific descriptors are provided for their feel, they presumably offer a similarly polished experience, making them a great choice for anyone focused on a smooth and enjoyable typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switches excel in providing a silent, muted sound combined with a polished and substantial feel, making them perfect for quiet workspaces. Meanwhile, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches are likely more balanced in sound with a smooth keystroke, though their audio characteristics remain unspecified. Both switches cater to individuals who appreciate refined typing experiences, though the Durock Dolphin may offer more clarity in sound dynamics. Ultimately, you can expect a satisfying typing experience from either choice depending on your preference for noise levels and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you are using your keyboard. If you're looking for a switch that provides a medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams and a silent, muted sound signature, the Durock Dolphin is an excellent option, especially in office settings or shared workspaces where noise levels are a consideration. Its polished feel delivers a smooth and satisfying typing experience, making it suitable for users who appreciate a bit more resistance while still enjoying a refined keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and seek a more pronounced "thock" sound, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is an appealing choice. Its super smooth keystroke and neutral sound signature make it ideal for gaming and casual typing, where you might prioritize feedback and auditory satisfaction. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you value a quiet, more substantial typing experience or a lighter, more resonant one that enhances both feel and sound.
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