Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type S, both of which are linear switches. The Durock Dolphin is well-regarded for its silent operation, making it ideal for environments where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press that strikes a balance between precision and resistance. In comparison, the Gateron Type S from Sillyworks' Project Rehash line offers a different experience with a 65g bottom-out weight for those who prefer a weightier keystroke. Its sound signature leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. While the Dolphin is categorized as polished, muted, low-pitched, the Type S is characterized as neutral, subdued. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type S switches offer different sound profiles due to their composition. The Dolphin features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Type S's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound profile, while nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These contrasting characteristics make the two switches suitable for different preferences in typing sound.
On the other hand, both the Dolphin and Type S switches share nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a similar deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound efficiently, creating a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. This shared housing material ensures that both switches deliver a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced when pressing down on the switches. However, the differences in their top housing materials will still impact the overall sound profile of each switch, especially when it comes to the sound released upon key release.
In summary, the Durock Dolphin and Gateron Type S switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different housing materials. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, clearer sound, while the Type S's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing sound and feel, with the distinctive qualities of each housing material catering to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch is None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. On the other hand, the Dolphin requires 62 grams of force to bottom out, which is lighter than the 65 grams needed for the Type S. This means that while the Dolphin is lighter to actuate, it offers a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Type S. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, individuals looking for a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Dolphin, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Type S.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type S has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dolphin. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dolphin being on the shorter side and the Type S being slightly longer. Those who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Dolphin due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Type S. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, catering to a wider range of preferences. While both switches offer a quieter operation compared to other mechanical switches, the Dolphin leans towards a softer and bass-heavy tone, while the Type S strikes a balance between neutrality and subtlety in its sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it ideal for users who appreciate a sleek and precise keystroke. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is not available at this time. However, given its weightier keystroke and advanced factory lubing techniques, it can be inferred that the Type S likely offers a satisfying and precise typing experience that complements its sound profile.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a muted, low-pitched sound with a polished and refined typing experience, while the Type S offers a more neutral, subdued sound with a weightier keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of quality and performance, albeit with differences in their respective sound and feel profiles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Dolphin switch may be the better choice for office settings or shared workspaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral sound profile, the Type S switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should depend on your individual typing preferences and the noise level tolerance of your surroundings. Happy typing!
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