TTC Bluish White vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Bluish White and the Durock Daybreak are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. The Bluish White is a tactile switch, known for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience and snappy sound profile, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak is a linear switch, offering a heftier typing experience with a solid 67g actuation force and quiet operation, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Daybreak switch provides a different typing feel compared to the Bluish White. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Bluish White and the Durock Daybreak feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Despite both switches having the same top housing material, the bottom housing sets them apart. The Bluish White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Daybreak also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound.
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Durock Daybreak, it is evident that both switches prioritize sound performance. The polycarbonate top housings in both models contribute to a more defined and resonant sound, ideal for users seeking a sharp typing experience. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Bluish White's nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect, ensuring a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
In conclusion, the choice between the TTC Bluish White and the Durock Daybreak ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer a unique typing experience thanks to their well-crafted housing materials. While they share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the distinct characteristics of their nylon bottom housings provide users with a range of sound profiles to choose from. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Bluish White or a deeper tone with the Daybreak, both switches deliver quality performance and aesthetics that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a relatively light typing experience. In comparison, the Daybreak has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, resulting in a more substantial keystroke feel. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Bluish White, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more pronounced typing experience may opt for the Daybreak. When seeking a similar typing experience for both switches with different actuation and bottom out forces, one can expect varying levels of tactile feedback and keystroke resistance. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and should be considered based on personal preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Durock Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Bluish White. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches noteworthy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which delivers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch provides a muted sound, producing a softer and quieter typing experience, ideal for environments where minimizing noise is essential. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, with the Bluish White providing a snappy and poppy sound, while the Daybreak delivers a quieter operation.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Bluish White switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch feels subtle and polished, offering a refined and sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak switch is also described as polished, delivering smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Bluish White featuring a stepped feeling that provides a mild tactile feedback.
Overall, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bluish White switch provides a poppy sound profile and a buttery typing experience, the Daybreak switch offers a muted sound and polished key travel. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches provide high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, the shared polished descriptor implies that users can expect a similar level of smoothness and refined typing experience from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you desire a light and poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Bluish White switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial touch with a muted and low-pitched sound, the Daybreak switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing feel and sound profile you enjoy. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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