Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type L mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silence, making it a great option for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it offers a precise and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Type L is also a linear switch but distinguishes itself as the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out. It offers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, making it a versatile option for 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type L, we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the properties of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, since the top housing of the Dolphin is made of polycarbonate, users can expect a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type L's nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound. The difference in housing materials between the two switches will result in a noticeable variation in sound and feel while typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing offers the added benefit of translucency, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. This visual feature sets it apart from the Type L, which lacks the clear housing characteristic of polycarbonate. Despite this difference, both switches share the classic switch housing material of nylon for their bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. The choice between the Dolphin and the Type L will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and visual appeal.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type L play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience for users. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in the top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the Type L's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a more resonant sound or a rounder sound profile, the choice between these switches will depend on your individual preferences and priorities in a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is the lighter option of the two. The Dolphin switch has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is unknown, while its bottom out force is 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the contrary, the Type L switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Type L switch for longer typing sessions or gaming use. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a heavier push, the Durock Dolphin switch may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and feel for users, with the Type L providing a lighter touch and the Dolphin offering a more medium-weight option.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Dolphin's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a more responsive feel, while the Type L's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for either a shorter, more abrupt feel or a longer, more deliberate keystroke.
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 L 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound, creating a softer and quieter typing experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch delivers a neutral and subdued sound, suitable for various purposes and offering a dampened sound signature that is more subtle compared to other switches. Both switches provide a different acoustic experience, with the Dolphin leaning towards a muted and low-pitched profile while the Type L offers a more neutral and subdued sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Type L switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. While the Dolphin switch focuses on a polished and sleek typing experience, the Type L switch prioritizes a light touch and ease of pressing during typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is best suited for those seeking a quieter typing experience with a balance of precision and resistance, ideal for office environments or individuals who prefer a switch with a bit more weight to it. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch caters to those looking for a light and easy-to-press switch that minimizes finger strain and fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Type L will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the environment and your preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is silent and offers a medium-heavy actuation force for a precise and satisfying typing experience, the Durock Dolphin is a great choice, especially for office settings where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Gateron Type L may be more suitable, particularly for tasks that require extended typing sessions due to its easy-to-press and feathery feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences to enhance your typing experience.
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