Durock Dolphin vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch with the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it's clear that each offers unique features to cater to different preferences. The Dolphin's silent operation and medium-heavy actuation force of 62g make it a great choice for office settings or anyone who values a quiet typing experience. In contrast, the Taro switch provides a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile response. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Dolphin and Jwick Taro utilize polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. The aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate, with its translucency allowing for RGB lighting effects, is present in both switches. However, they may differ in the design or color of the polycarbonate housing, offering a unique look for each switch.
On the other hand, both switches also feature nylon bottom housings, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. The nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. While both switches share this material in their bottom housing, the design and shape of the housing may vary between the Durock Dolphin and Jwick Taro, possibly impacting the overall typing experience.
Overall, the differences between the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and Jwick Taro may lie in their individual design choices or color options rather than the quality and characteristics of the materials themselves. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a clear and resonant sound profile, as well as nylon for the bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of aesthetics and design features.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, making it relatively light in terms of initial keypress sensitivity, while the Taro also has an actuation force of None grams. This means that in terms of actuation force, both switches will yield similar results. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dolphin requires 62 grams of force, making it lighter than the Taro which needs 67 grams to bottom out. This means that the Dolphin will provide a slightly softer typing experience compared to the Taro, which offers a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Dolphin being preferred for longer typing sessions and the Taro for those seeking a heavier, more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for users looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer these options for their fast-paced demands. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Dolphin being slightly longer than the Taro. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for the level of depth and tactility desired in a switch.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 provides a muted and low-pitched typing experience, ideal for those seeking a quieter environment. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of settings. Both switches deliver a pleasant typing experience, with the Dolphin focusing on a softer and quieter sound, while the Taro provides a moderate and crisp sound with acute clacks.
When it comes to feel, the Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Taro switch is characterized as buttery, providing a fluid and uniform keystroke sensation. Additionally, the Taro switch is described as stepped, offering a mild tactile feedback with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Dolphin focusing on a sleek and polished feel, while the Taro provides a buttery and stepped tactile experience.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a silent and low-pitched typing experience with a polished and refined feel, while the Taro offers a crisp and neutral sound profile with a buttery and stepped tactile sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that can cater to different needs and preferences. Ultimately, whether choosing the Dolphin or the Taro, users can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you value a silent switch for a quiet workspace, the Dolphin with its medium bottom out force of 62 grams may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more tactility and a cozier typing experience, the Taro with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams could be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize silence or tactility in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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