Durock Dolphin vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Bsun Tomcat each offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences and environments. The Durock Dolphin, a silent linear switch, is particularly suited for office spaces or shared environments where noise reduction is essential; its medium-heavy actuation force of 62g provides a satisfying, weighty feel that many typists crave for enhanced precision. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat boasts Ly stems that deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience, accompanied by a resonant sound profile that adds a dynamic auditory element to each keystroke. While the Dolphin focuses on a polished and muted feel to minimize distractions, the Tomcat appeals to those who appreciate an engaging sound while typing. Both switches have their advantages, depending on whether you prioritize a quieter environment or an enjoyable auditory 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

Durock Dolphin Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Dolphin and the Bsun Tomcat both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a distinctively sharp and clear sound when typing. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of the polycarbonate material, making them well-suited for setups that incorporate RGB lighting. With such similarities in top housing composition, users can expect a comparable sound profile and visual appeal, allowing for seamless integration into customized keyboard configurations that highlight lighting features.

In contrast, both the Dolphin and Tomcat employ nylon for their bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, contrasting the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate tops. This dual housing combination creates a unique auditory experience, with the bottom housing influencing the sound and feel at the bottom-out point of the keystroke. Since both switches utilize the same nylon material, users can anticipate a consistent sound quality from both models, underscoring the classic nature of nylon switch housings when it comes to providing comfort and a distinctive typing cadence.

Ultimately, the contrasting characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing of the Dolphin and Tomcat create a nuanced typing experience. While both switches share the same top and bottom materials, the way they interact with each other allows for distinct sound profiles that cater to different user preferences. The polycarbonate top enhances clarity and resonance, while the nylon bottom filters and softens the overall sound, resulting in a well-rounded yet sharp auditory experience. Whether selecting the Dolphin or Tomcat, users can expect a harmonious blend of crispness and depth that fits their individual typing styles.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces become quite interesting. The Dolphin switch does not have a specified actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. In contrast, the Tomcat has an actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 54 grams, categorized as medium-light. Therefore, while the Dolphin’s bottom out force is heavier, the Tomcat is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces. This means that typists looking for a more substantial feel with the Dolphin may prefer its higher bottoming out resistance, while those who favor a lighter touch during longer typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Tomcat for its easier actuation. Overall, while the Dolphin offers a firmer response at bottom out, the Tomcat provides a more relaxed typing experience due to its lower resistance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Dolphin stands out with a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Tomcat measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. The difference in travel distance may significantly influence user preference; the Dolphin's greater depth can provide a more robust typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a fuller feel when pressing down on keys. In contrast, the Tomcat's shorter travel distance caters to gamers and users seeking faster response times, making it a more nimble option for rapid key presses. Thus, while the Dolphin offers a deeper and more traditional feel, the Tomcat provides a quicker, more responsive experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a more substantial tactile experience or a lighter, quicker response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Durock Dolphin linear switches stand out for their muted sound profile, characterized by a low-pitched resonance that results in a soft and quieter typing experience. This makes them particularly well-suited for environments where maintaining a low noise level is crucial, such as open offices or shared workspaces. With their focus on minimizing the clack typically associated with mechanical switches, the Dolphins cater to users who prefer a subtle auditory feedback without the disruptive sounds that can come from more traditional switches. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches boast a resonant sound profile, although specific descriptors for this switch's sound characteristics were not provided. This suggests a potential for a more pronounced auditory experience, making them suitable for users who might enjoy a richer sound while typing.

When it comes to tactile feel, the Dolphin switches provide a polished experience, thanks to their smooth and refined finish. This reduced friction contributes to a sleek key travel, ensuring that each press feels effortless and satisfying. The medium-heavy actuation force of 62g offers a balance of resistance and precision, appealing to those who desire a slightly firmer feedback during typing. While the Tomcat's unique feel was not elaborated upon, it is known that the Ly stems contribute to a super smooth typing experience. Therefore, both switches seem to prioritize a fluid keystroke, though the exact tactile feedback of the Tomcats remains unspecified.

In summary, the Durock Dolphin linear switches excel in producing a silent, low-pitched sound, making them ideal for quiet work settings while providing a polished feel that enhances the typing experience. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat linear switches, with their resonant sound and smooth typing experience from the Ly stems, cater to enthusiasts who might prefer a different sensory feedback during use. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct attributes, the choice between them would largely depend on individual preferences concerning sound and the specific tactile experience one seeks in a mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch will largely depend on your specific uses and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that operates quietly without sacrificing typing feel, the Durock Dolphin is a superb option. With its medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams, the Dolphins deliver a satisfying resistance that ensures precision during intense typing sessions, making them ideal for office environments or shared workspaces where noise reduction is paramount. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience and slightly lighter keypresses, the Bsun Tomcat with its 54 grams of actuation force would be your best bet. The Tomcat's unique Ly stems provide an exceptionally smooth keystroke, which can enhance your overall typing comfort, while its more resonant sound profile appeals to those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback. Ultimately, consider where and how you will use these switches; for a quieter, more substantive experience, choose the Dolphins, while for a lighter, smoother feel, the Tomcats will suit you well.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more