Kailh Box White V2 vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Daybreak represent two distinct philosophies in design and user experience. The Kailh Box White V2, categorized as a clicky switch, is celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it an ideal choice for typists who crave the classic, tactile response of traditional mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak switches offer a linear experience, characterized by a heavier actuation force of 67g that provides a more substantial typing feel, while their low-pitched and polished response ensures quiet operation, making them particularly suited for office environments or any setting where noise reduction is a priority. Both switches cater to different preferences—opt for the Box White V2 for a more engaging and responsive experience, or choose the Daybreak for smooth, silent keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Daybreak switches share a remarkable similarity in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice plays a critical role in shaping the overall auditory experience of the switches, as the polycarbonate's stiffer composition leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both switches are designed with this material not only for its acoustic benefits but also for aesthetic advantages, given that polycarbonate's translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. Consequently, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects from both switches, featuring that bright clarity and vibrant illumination that only polycarbonate can provide.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Daybreak is also made of nylon, establishing a harmonious acoustic balance that further influences sound perception. While polycarbonate contributes brightness, nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound to deliver a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This dual-material construction results in a unique sound profile: the crispness from the polycarbonate top interacts with the rounded, deeper tones from the nylon base. As such, both switches will provide a consistent, well-rounded sound experience, rooted in the same material philosophy, allowing users to relish a pronounced bottom-out sound matched by a clear and resonant release.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon across both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Daybreak showcases how thoughtfully chosen materials can provide a finely tuned auditory experience. While the top housings share identical advantages, the bottom houses complement them in a way that balances out the overall sound profile. It is the interplay of these materials—polycarbonate's clarity and nylon's depth—that establishes a defined auditory signature common to both switches. Users can expect a cohesive typing experience that embodies the best of both worlds, showcasing how specific material choices can yield similarly favorable results.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users seeking a comfortable typing experience that minimizes fatigue during extended sessions. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak features an unsurpassed bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel that may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, details about its actuation force remain unknown. Based on the known forces, the Kailh Box White V2 is lighter overall, facilitating prolonged use, while the Durock Daybreak is heavier, possibly providing a more tactile and pronounced typing sensation for users who appreciate that feedback.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Box White V2 the shorter of the two switches, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive experience and quicker keystrokes, which is often favored in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Daybreak's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a deeper, more pronounced feel that can be advantageous for typists or gamers who appreciate a noticeable bottom-out and a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches heavily depends on personal preference regarding feedback and responsiveness; those seeking faster response times would gravitate towards the Kailh Box White V2, while those desiring a fuller typing experience may prefer the Durock Daybreak.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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
The Kailh Box White V2 switch is renowned for its characteristic loud and appealing click sound, delivering a distinct auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. This switch’s crisp click accentuates the actuation point, making each key press feel deliberate and rewarding. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak switch operates quietly, producing a low-pitched sound that is bass-heavy and mellow. This serene operation makes it more suitable for environments where noise control is a priority, providing a stark contrast to the audible feedback of the Box White V2, which is more about expressiveness and engagement during typing.
On the feel front, the Box White V2 offers a sharp tactile engagement that complements its clicky nature, providing users with immediate feedback that makes typing both enjoyable and precise. However, it does not specifically detail the smoothness or any refinements in its actuation, which can sometimes deter those who prefer a polished, uninterrupted key travel experience. The Durock Daybreak, on the other hand, excels in its smooth glide, attributed to its polished finish that minimizes friction, resulting in a fluid and seamless typing experience. This makes the Daybreak an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions, where a comfortable and easy key press is essential.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and Durock Daybreak switches offer contrasting experiences. The Box White V2 shines with its loud, audible clicks and tactile feedback that enhances every keystroke, while the Daybreak is celebrated for its quiet operation and polished feel that caters to typing smoothness and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel; either way, expect to find engaging and enjoyable experiences tailored to your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Kailh Box White V2 clicky switches and Durock Daybreak linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you appreciate a light actuation force, crisp tactile feedback, and an audible click that adds excitement to your typing experience, the Box White V2 is the ideal choice. It's particularly suitable for gaming or environments where you want the sensory feedback of a click, provided noise isn't a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier key feel with a more subdued sound profile, the Durock Daybreak is likely the better option. Its medium-heavy actuation force offers a satisfying resistance, while its quiet operation makes it perfect for office settings or shared spaces where noise can be disruptive. Additionally, if you value a smooth and polished typing experience, the Daybreak’s refined design enhances the overall feel without the distractions of audible clicks. Ultimately, consider your typing habits, sound preferences, and the environments in which you’ll be using the keyboard to make the choice that best fits your needs.
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