Durock Dolphin vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Dolphin and the Gazzew U4T offer unique and compelling features for different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are linear switches known for their silence, making them a great choice for office environments or those who prefer a quieter typing experience. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, they offer a balance of precision and a satisfying press. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Ts are tactile switches that boast a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. Both switches offer distinctive characteristics that cater to different typing 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

Durock Dolphin Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Dolphin and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, with the polycarbonate providing a clearer and resonant sound and the Gazzew blend offering a deeper and fuller tone. However, they both excel in creating an immersive typing experience, with the polycarbonate top housing ideal for RGB lighting effects and the Gazzew blend top housing providing a rich sound profile.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Dolphin's nylon material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing offers a rich and deep sound profile, also benefitting from its softness. Both materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing providing a classic sound profile and the Gazzew blend bottom housing delivering a rich and deep tone. Overall, the different housing materials in the bottom part of the switches enhance the overall sound profile and feel of the switches.

While each switch has unique top and bottom housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles, the impact of these materials is felt differently during keystrokes. The bottom housing material plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of selecting the right housing materials for a specific typing experience, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin and the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T offering unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials.

Weight

Both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have a medium to medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Dolphin being slightly lighter at 62 grams compared to the U4T's 65 grams. The actuation force for both switches is not specified, but it can be assumed that they are similar since the bottom out force is in the same range. The lighter bottom out force of the Dolphin may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the U4T may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feedback.

Travel distance

The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the U4T slightly longer in terms of travel distance compared to the Dolphin. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their quicker response times, especially among gamers. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Dolphin to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly longer travel distance of the U4T for a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, providing a softer and quieter sound compared to other switches. This makes it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience with each key press. Both switches excel in providing a unique sound experience, with the Dolphin focusing on a quieter typing experience while the U4T delivers a more pronounced and rich sound.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity with a distinct and prominent tactile sensation during each key press. Both switches offer different feel characteristics, with the Dolphin emphasizing a polished and refined typing experience while the U4T delivers a sharp and crisp tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, ideal for quieter environments, and a polished feel for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the U4T offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, along with a sharp tactile feedback for a distinct typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether you choose the Dolphin or the U4T, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that aligns with your specific preferences in switches.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your environment and personal preferences. If you prioritize a silent and medium actuation force switch for a quiet workspace or office setting, the Dolphin would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bassy thocky sound profile and strong tactile feedback, the U4T would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a smoother, polished typing experience or a sharp, intense tactile feel with a richer sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so take into account what features are most important to you when making your selection.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more