Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a silent switch, making it perfect for quiet office environments or workspaces where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a balanced feel that combines precision with a satisfying press, appealing to those who prefer a switch with more resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A, part of Sillyworks' Project Rehash, offers a medium-weight option with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the sound spectrum. While the Dolphin is described as polished, muted, low-pitched, the Type A is categorized as neutral, subdued. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and Gateron Type A both feature nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housing. On the other hand, the Dolphin utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Type A features a nylon top housing, which also offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, but in a different tonal quality compared to the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing.
The choice of housing materials in both the Durock Dolphin and Gateron Type A greatly impacts the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the difference lies in their top housing materials. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a more vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A's nylon top housing produces a deeper sound profile, giving a fuller typing feel to users who appreciate a more mellow sound. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience thanks to their quality construction.
In terms of sound and feel, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in determining the overall typing experience of the Durock Dolphin and Gateron Type A switches. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that the choice of housing materials for each component can significantly influence the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin or the softer nylon top housing of the Type A, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch differ in weight. The Durock Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Gateron Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Type A switch lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Dolphin switch. The Dolphin switch provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer less resistance when typing for long periods. On the other hand, the Type A switch offers a more substantial push feel, making it a better choice for users who prefer a firmer typing experience. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dolphin offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type A switch, which could result in slightly faster response times for those who prefer quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Type A switch provides a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be more comfortable for those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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
The Durock Dolphin linear switch stands out for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a quiet option suitable for office environments. In contrast, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, providing a moderate sound profile ideal for various settings. When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dolphin is praised for its polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing. While not much information is available about the feel of the Type A switch, it can be inferred that it offers a similar smooth typing experience due to the lack of descriptors indicating otherwise.
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dolphin excels in providing a quiet typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation force, while the Type A strikes a balance between sound and feel with its moderate weight and deep sound signature. Whether you prefer a switch with more resistance like the Dolphin or a switch with a compromise between weight and sound like the Type A, both options guarantee a satisfying typing experience depending on your preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, the Durock Dolphin linear switch would be an excellent choice, particularly for office environments or shared workspaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter actuation force and a more neutral, subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type A linear switch may be a better fit for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose based on what best suits your typing style and environment.
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