Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, there are several factors to consider. The Durock Dolphins are ideal for those seeking a quiet typing experience, making them perfect for office settings or quiet environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, they provide a balanced feel that combines precision with a satisfying press. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a shorter travel distance, appealing to users looking for a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch provides a pleasant typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. Both materials are known for their ability to enhance the sound of the switch, with polycarbonate being especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow offers a satisfying and clacky sound.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Dolphin and Ink Yellow switches both play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin contributes to a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow produces a thin and high-pitched sound, while the proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a satisfying clacky sound. These unique characteristics highlight how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the typing experience and overall performance of a switch.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Dolphin and Ink Yellow switches showcase the importance of the top and bottom housing in influencing the sound and feel of a switch. The qualities of each material, whether it be polycarbonate, nylon, or the proprietary INK blend, are instrumental in shaping the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. While each material brings its own unique characteristics to the table, the end result for both switches is a satisfying typing experience that is enhanced by the specific housing materials chosen for each component of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the Dolphin is the lighter option, with an actuation force of None grams. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ink Yellow is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Dolphin at 62 grams and the Ink Yellow at 67 grams. Overall, the Dolphin offers a lighter typing experience, while the Ink Yellow provides a bit more resistance for those who prefer a firmer feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance for quicker response times, making the Gateron Ink Yellow a popular choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Durock Dolphin with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and response time.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 comparing the sound of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, the Dolphin stands out for its muted and low-pitched profile, which creates a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow offers a neutral sound with a hint of clackiness, providing a balance between moderate noise levels and a crisp, bright tone. In terms of feel, both switches share a polished characteristic, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, while the Dolphin excels in providing a substantial feel with medium-heavy actuation force, making it a favored choice for precision typing, the Ink Yellow offers a shorter travel distance for a typing experience akin to a laptop but with a pleasant smoothness and clackiness. Whether one opts for the Dolphin or the Ink Yellow, they can expect similar polished feel but distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and settings.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you need a silent switch for an office setting or prefer a switch with a bit more resistance, the Durock Dolphin may be the better option with its medium actuation force of 62g. On the other hand, if you want a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow with its shorter travel and smooth, clacky feel may be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force.
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