Bsun Akashi vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Akashi and Durock Daybreak are both linear mechanical keyboard switches known for their unique characteristics and features. The Akashi switches stand out for their smooth UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing, resulting in a distinctive sound profile that is both bright and rich with each key press. On the other hand, the Daybreak switches offer a heavier 67g actuation force, making them ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience while still maintaining a quiet operation for noise-sensitive environments. While the Akashi is praised for its creamy and snappy feel, the Daybreak is recognized for its muted and low-pitched sound. Ultimately, both switches offer a refined typing experience, but diving deeper into their individual qualities will help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and Durock Daybreak switches both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Daybreak boasts a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. While the two switches both offer deep sound profiles due to their nylon bottom housings, they differ in the top housing material, leading to distinct overall sound experiences.
Aesthetically, the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing is more likely to be used for switches with clear housings, making it ideal for RGB lighting purposes. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects, enhancing the overall look of the switch. On the other hand, the Akashi's POM top housing may not be as visually striking, but it offers a unique sound experience with its muted tones. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but the choice between POM and polycarbonate will depend on whether RGB lighting is a priority for the user.
When it comes to typing experience, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Durock Daybreak play a significant role in the overall feel and sound of the switches. The softer nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, while the top housing material dictates the sharpness or mutedness of the sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound from polycarbonate or a deeper, more resonant sound from POM, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the Akashi and Daybreak will come down to personal preference for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Daybreak's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that the Akashi requires a lighter touch to activate a keystroke compared to the Daybreak, which offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Those who prefer longer typing sessions may lean towards the Akashi for its lighter actuation force, while those seeking a stronger push may gravitate towards the Daybreak for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akashi. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Daybreak may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. This sound profile is characterized by its crisp and bright nature, providing a percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is described as muted and low-pitched, offering a quieter typing experience compared to the Akashi. The Daybreak's switches aim to minimize noise while still providing a satisfying typing sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press qualities. These switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The Durock Daybreak linear switch, on the other hand, is also described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and fluid key travel. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience but offer slightly different tactile sensations, catering to individual preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch each offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a clacky sound profile with various smooth and responsive feel descriptors, catering to those who enjoy a bright and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Daybreak offers a quieter and more polished sound alongside a smooth typing sensation, ideal for individuals seeking a refined and muted typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches present compelling options that can enhance the overall mechanical keyboarding experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Akashi and Daybreak switches will come down to individual preference and desired typing characteristics, but rest assured, both switches will deliver quality performance in their respective areas.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light, smooth, and resonant typing experience, you may want to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch. With its UPE stem and unique housing combo, the Akashi offers a creamy, frictionless feel with a bright and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a muted and low-pitched sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch with its 67g actuation force might be the better option for you. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so consider your typing preferences and environment when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Akashi and Daybreak switches comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
Mentioned in this article
