Durock Dolphin vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Dolphin offers a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, making it suitable for quiet office environments. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile with pronounced tactility, offering a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. While the Dolphin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Viola Tricolor is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bassy', 'Invigorating', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their unique advantages, catering 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

Durock Dolphin Linear

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile in both switches. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is especially beneficial in the top housing of switches if RGB lighting is a consideration. However, despite these similarities in top housing material, the bottom housings of the switches differ, with the Dolphin utilizing a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor also employs a nylon bottom housing for similar effects.

While both the Dolphin and the Viola Tricolor benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings, the differences in their top housings may lead to varying sound experiences. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound profile, emphasizing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing may offer a unique auditory experience, with the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience.

Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the Durock Dolphin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile, their use of nylon in the bottom housings yields distinct differences in sound characteristics. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound from a nylon bottom housing or a more resonant sound from a polycarbonate top housing, the varying combinations of housing materials in these switches provide a range of auditory experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches have an unknown actuation force. In terms of weight, the Dolphin is lighter, which may be preferred by those looking for a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is slightly heavier, offering a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective force requirements. Ultimately, selecting the right switch will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, both switches offer users the same amount of distance to travel from the top to the bottom when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Dolphin or the Viola Tricolor, you can expect similar results in terms of the key travel experience. It's worth noting that both switches provide a moderate travel distance, which may be preferred by users looking for a balance between keypress feedback and typing comfort.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter option. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that adds a unique charm to each keystroke. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, catering to varying preferences. However, if you prefer a deeper, richer sound, the Viola Tricolor might be the better choice for you.

Moving on to feel, the Dolphin switch provides a polished and refined typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor switch offers an invigorating and accented tactile feedback, striking a balance between a moderate actuation force and a satisfying keystroke response. The Dolphin switch focuses on smoothness and precision, while the Viola Tricolor emphasizes a tactile and reactive feel. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother or more tactile typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities to consider.

Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch each have their own set of unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dolphin excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, while the Viola Tricolor offers a punchy sound profile and a pronounced tactility. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, with the Dolphin offering a smoother typing experience and the Viola Tricolor providing a more tactile feel. Regardless of your choice, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience and provide satisfaction with each keystroke.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a silent typing experience, the Dolphin switch would be a great choice, particularly for office settings or quiet workspaces. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique thuddy sound profile and a pronounced tactile feedback, the Viola Tricolor switch may be more to your preference. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style and environment best.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more