Durock Dolphin vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for quiet office environments or workspaces where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it offers a responsive and precise typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a switch with some resistance. On the other hand, the Swift is also a linear switch but stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings. With a delicate 42g actuation force, it provides a light and effortless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the HMX Swift, one key difference is the material used in the top housing. The Dolphin utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Swift's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Dolphin produces a crisper sound, while the nylon of the Swift produces a rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Dolphin and Swift utilize nylon, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. This consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches contributes to a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the differences in the top housing material between the Durock Dolphin and the HMX Swift contribute to variations in sound profile, with the polycarbonate of the Dolphin offering a sharper and crisper sound compared to the nylon of the Swift. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile for both switches. Whether looking for a sharper sound with the Dolphin or a fuller sound with the Swift, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Dolphin switch has no specified actuation force, making it unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Swift switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, providing a light touch, and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In terms of weight, the Swift switch is lighter than the Dolphin switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Swift switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Dolphin switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will 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 HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Dolphin switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Swift switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for key press depth 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 stands out for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as having a clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, the Dolphin offers a more subdued and bass-heavy tone, while the Swift delivers a crisp and bright sound when actuated. Keep in mind that the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is characterized as polished, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, providing a light actuation force for effortless typing and a spring-like feedback sensation. The Dolphin switch emphasizes a balanced feel with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. On the other hand, the Swift switch's delicate 42g actuation force ensures a comfortable and low-impact typing feel ideal for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch excels in offering a muted sound profile and a polished typing feel, providing a satisfying press with medium-heavy actuation force. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch distinguishes itself with a deeper sound profile and a variety of feel descriptors, ensuring a silky smooth typing experience with a lighter actuation force. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing needs. Whether you opt for the Dolphin or the Swift, you can expect a premium typing experience with their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, you should consider your environment and personal preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is silent and offers a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin may be the better choice for you, especially if you are working in an office setting where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smoother, more feathery typing experience, the Swift switch may be the right fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, preferred sound profile, and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
