Durock Dolphin vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Venus, both of which are linear switches. The Durock Dolphin is a silent switch, making it a great choice for quieter environments such as offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press with precision, making it ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the TTC Venus offers a unique internal configuration that sets it apart from other switches. It features a seamless and nearly frictionless glide paired with a "Q-texture" that provides a springy resistance akin to biting into a chewy mochi. This combination creates a matte sensation that is smooth and engaging, perfect for rapid and effortless typing. While the Durock Dolphin is polished, muted, and low-pitched, the TTC Venus is categorized as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, neutral, subdued, and thocky. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Venus, we can see that the Dolphin uses a combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the Venus uses POM for the top housing and polycarbonate for the bottom housing. This contrast in materials leads to a significant difference in sound profiles, with the Dolphin offering a sharper, crisper sound due to the polycarbonate top housing, and a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing. In comparison, the Venus provides a unique, deeper sound from the POM top housing, and a sharper, clearer sound from the polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences in sound profiles showcase how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall typing experience of a keyboard.
While the Dolphin and Venus have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both highlight the importance of material choice in creating a distinct sound profile for mechanical keyboards. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Dolphin and the bottom housing of the Venus creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin and the POM top housing of the Venus contribute to a deeper, more muted sound. Despite the differences in material usage, both switches aim to provide a pleasing typing experience by utilizing the unique acoustic properties of each material. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both the Dolphin and Venus offer options to cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Venus play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a diverse range of sound characteristics to be achieved, catering to varying preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing create a distinct sound profile, the Venus's POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing offer a unique typing experience as well. Ultimately, both switches showcase the importance of material selection in the design and construction of mechanical keyboards, providing users with options to customize their typing experience based on personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we can see some differences. The Dolphin has no specified actuation force, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the Venus with its 45-gram actuation force. However, the Dolphin does have a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Venus's 52 grams, making it a slightly heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Venus may be the better choice due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, the Dolphin may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Both switches fall into the medium range when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and how much weight one places on actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin and the TTC Venus linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect consistent keypress feedback and actuation on both switches. In conclusion, whether you choose the Durock Dolphin or the TTC Venus linear switch, you can be assured that the travel distance will be the same, resulting in a familiar typing experience regardless of the choice made.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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, both the Durock Dolphin and TTC Venus switches are described as low-pitched and muted, offering a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. The Dolphin provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Venus boasts a unique "matte" sensation with a subdued auditory embrace. This means that users can expect a similar, quieter sound profile from both switches, making them suitable for quiet environments like offices.
When it comes to feel, the Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Venus switch offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless, and mild typing experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. Both switches focus on providing a comfortable typing experience, with the Dolphin emphasizing a polished finish and the Venus offering a more fluid and engaging sensation.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin and TTC Venus switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a medium-heavy actuation force for precise typing with a muted and low-pitched sound, while the Venus stands out with its innovative internal configuration for a smooth and engaging typing experience. Whether you prefer a switch with a bit more resistance like the Dolphin or a light actuation force like the Venus, both options promise a satisfying typing experience with their distinct characteristics. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from these switches, depending on personal preferences for typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you require a silent switch for an office setting or any workspace where noise levels are a concern, the Dolphin may be the better choice with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62g. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force for rapid and effortless typing, combined with a unique "matte" sensation and a muted sound signature, the Venus could be the ideal option with its 52g bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience. Evaluate your needs and preferences carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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