Kailh Box White vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the Durock Daybreak, a linear switch. The Box White is known for its clicky nature, providing maximum audio feedback with a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility while typing. On the other hand, the Daybreak offers a heavier typing experience at 67g, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial touch, while still maintaining a quiet operation. While the Box White is resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy, the Daybreak is polished, muted, and low-pitched. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and Durock Daybreak switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This translucent material is especially beneficial for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, as it allows for the illumination to shine through the housing. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches offers similar benefits, providing a clear and resonant sound profile.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Box White features nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound, complementing the qualities provided by the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Durock Daybreak also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches offers a well-rounded sound experience that combines the benefits of both materials.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and Durock Daybreak switches differ in their top and bottom housing compositions, the overall typing experience and sound profile are likely to be quite similar due to the shared use of polycarbonate and nylon. The impact of each housing material is felt in different aspects of typing, with the bottom housing contributing to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced combination of materials that result in a satisfying typing experience with distinctive sound characteristics.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock Daybreak linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Daybreak is heavier with 67 grams compared to the Box White's 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. If you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Box White may be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy the feel of a more substantial push when typing, the Daybreak with its slightly heavier bottom out force may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch. The Box White provides a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Daybreak offers a bit more depth in each keystroke, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 Kailh Box White switch is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, providing users with a sharp and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak switch offers a muted, low-pitched sound that minimizes noise and creates a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preference, the Box White switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a more pronounced and crisp sound, while the Daybreak switch appeals to individuals looking for a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Box White and Daybreak switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. This means that users can expect a sleek and comfortable typing experience with either switch, as the polished finish contributes to a more seamless keypress.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White switch caters to users seeking a more audible and tactile typing experience with its resonant and crunchy sound profile, while the Daybreak switch provides a quieter and heavier typing sensation with its muted and low-pitched sound. Both switches feature a polished feel that ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, touch, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy maximum audio feedback, with a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile, then the Box White switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a more muted sound profile and a smoother key travel, the Daybreak switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force and polished feel, would be the better option for you. Consider your personal preferences in terms of typing noise and tactile feedback to determine which switch suits your needs best. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to your individual typing style and preferences.
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