Durock Dolphin vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Yunhai offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Durock Dolphin is renowned for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for office environments or quiet workspaces where noise can be an issue. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches provide a substantial feel that combines precision with a satisfying press, appealing to users who appreciate a bit more resistance in their typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches shine with their incredibly light actuation force, delivering a typing experience that is both gentle and effortless. This switch is perfect for typists seeking a smooth, feather-light touch, accompanied by a unique, deep sound profile that sets it apart. While the Dolphin caters to those who thrive in quieter settings with a more substantial feel, the Yunhai appeals to users who prefer a softer, more effortless typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the TTC Yunhai switches showcase distinct characteristics, particularly in their top housing compositions. The Dolphin features a polycarbonate top housing, known for imparting a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This rigidity of the polycarbonate allows for enhanced resonance, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize clarity in their typing experience. In contrast, the Yunhai utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer composition. The softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory output. These differing materials underscore a fundamental contrast in the acoustic properties of each switch, influencing user preference based on the desired sound experience.
However, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, providing a consistent auditory quality that aligns the Dolphin and Yunhai in terms of their overall sound profile while typing. Nylon is well-regarded for its ability to absorb sound, and both switches benefit from this characteristic, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when the key is bottomed out. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a commonality between the two switches, suggesting that regardless of the differences found in their top housings, users can expect a similar baseline experience when typing, especially during the bottom-out phase.
In considering the combined effect of the top and bottom housing materials, it's clear that each contributes uniquely to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Durock Dolphin enhances the auditory experience while releasing a key, leading to a crisper sound, whereas the nylon top of the TTC Yunhai offers a fuller sound during the same action. However, both switches harness the sound-absorbing quality of nylon in their bottom housings, resulting in a consistent deeper typing experience. Ultimately, while the two switches present contrasting materials in their top housings, their shared nylon bottom housing harmonizes their performance, making them appealing options depending on user preference for sound clarity versus fullness.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dolphin switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is categorized as medium, but its actuation force remains unspecified. In contrast, the Yunhai switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This distinction means that the Yunhai switch requires less force to actuate, making it a more suitable option for users who favor lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dolphin, with its heavier bottom out force, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer unique characteristics, the Yunhai is the lighter option with a specified actuation force, whereas the Dolphin's actuation force remains unknown, making direct comparisons on that aspect challenging.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, the Dolphin has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Yunhai measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This makes the Dolphin the longer travel switch and the Yunhai the shorter option. For gamers seeking faster response times, the Yunhai's shorter travel distance may be appealing due to its more immediate actuation. However, those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing may prefer the Dolphin's longer travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on whether one values swift responsiveness or a deeper, more tactile experience.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 considering the sound profile of the Durock Dolphin linear switch, it is characterized by a muted and low-pitched quality. This means that the sound produced during typing is softer and less intrusive, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise reduction is essential, such as offices or shared workspaces. The rounded tones add a warm ambiance without the typical mechanical click or clack associated with many switches. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch's specific sound characteristics are not provided, but it is vital to note that the overall sound profile can also be influenced by factors like the chosen keyboard and keycap materials. Thus, if the Yunhai shares a similarly non-disruptive sound signature, users may enjoy a quieter typing experience, albeit this remains uncertain without explicit descriptions.
The feel of the Durock Dolphin is marked by a polished and smooth typing experience, contributing to a sleek sensation as the keys travel. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams, users can expect sufficient resistance that offers a level of precision without causing strain during longer typing sessions. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai is described as feathery, suggesting its actuation requires minimal effort. This lighter switch feels effortless under the fingers, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort during extended use. As a result, while the Dolphin provides a more substantial typing experience, the Yunhai emphasizes a gentler, more relaxed press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding the desired typing resistance and sensation.
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin and TTC Yunhai linear switches cater to specific typing preferences, with the Dolphin offering a polished, muted experience and the Yunhai delivering a feathery, light touch. Depending on the user's needs—whether they prioritize a substantial feel or effortless typing—they can make an informed decision. If sound quality is also essential, the Dolphin’s quieter profile is particularly advantageous, while the Yunhai's sound remains uncertain but could potentially align with a similarly subdued expectation. Ultimately, both switches provide compelling options in the linear switch market, and trying them out firsthand could be the best way to determine which aligns with your personal typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your decision between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch boils down to your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you work in a shared space or prioritize a quieter environment, the Dolphin is the clear winner, thanks to its muted and low-pitched sound profile that minimizes disruption. The medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams provides a satisfying tactile sensation for those who appreciate a little resistance, making it a solid choice for individuals who enjoy a more deliberate typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and plan to use your keyboard for extended periods, the Yunhai's feathery feel and light actuation force of just 50 grams make it an exceptional option. Its deeper, rounded sound, while not as muted as the Dolphin, adds a unique auditory character to your typing experience, perfect for casual users or gamers looking for a smooth, effortless interaction. Thus, consider the environment you’ll be using the keyboard in and your personal comfort needs to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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