Durock Dolphin vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin, a linear switch, and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, offer unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The Dolphin stands out for its silent operation, making it perfect for quiet office settings or any environment where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfyingly substantial feel that strikes a balance between precision and resistance. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option for those looking for a Goldilocks tactile experience. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is clear that both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. Despite this similarity, the bottom housings of the two switches differ, with the Dolphin utilizing nylon while the Violet Gold Pro also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall sound profile of a switch. While both switches benefit from the sharp and clear sound produced by polycarbonate, the differing bottom housings of nylon contribute to unique sound characteristics. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing brings a deeper and fuller sound, creating a contrast with the crisper sound from the polycarbonate top. Similarly, the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing adds a rounder sound quality to complement the sharpness of the polycarbonate top, resulting in a well-rounded audio experience.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro work together to create a dynamic typing experience with a balance of sharpness, depth, and fullness in the sound profile. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings allow for a range of sound textures when typing on these switches. While the polycarbonate top housings deliver a distinct and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller audio experience. This combination of materials showcases how different housing materials can interact to create a unique tactile and auditory experience for users of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium resistance when fully pressed. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. While the actuation force of the Dolphin is not specified, the Violet Gold Pro has an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Violet Gold Pro, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch may appeal to users seeking a more substantial push feel for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Therefore, whether you choose the Dolphin or the Violet Gold Pro, you can expect to feel the same level of key travel when using either switch.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched experience, resulting in a softer and quieter typing sound compared to other mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent option for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of settings and preferences. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, catering to those who prefer a more subdued typing noise or a balanced sound signature.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch provides a polished typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish that contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel enhances the overall typing experience, appealing to users looking for a sleek and comfortable switch. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a stepped tactile feel, providing a more subtle tactility compared to other tactile switches. The stepped design gives users a distinct typing sensation with a moderate level of feedback, suited for those who prefer a gentler tactile response.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a balanced tactile feel with a light touch. Depending on your preference for sound levels and typing feedback, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Both switches showcase their own strengths, so choosing between them will ultimately come down to personal preference and the specific typing environment you'll be using them in.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, you should consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you work in an office or shared space where noise levels matter, the Dolphin's silent operation may be the better choice. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy actuation force for a more substantial feel, the Dolphin may be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you value a balanced typing experience with a medium level of tactility and a neutral sound signature, the Violet Gold Pro switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your workspace.
Mentioned in this article
