Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Daybreak mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two linear options that offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. This switch is known for being 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', providing a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak offers a heavier typing experience at 67g, catering to those who prefer a more substantial touch. Its quiet operation and low-pitched sound profile make it ideal for noise-sensitive environments, earning it the categories of 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched'. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Daybreak feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate as a plastic material allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This results in a more visually appealing and audibly satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
In terms of bottom housings, both the CAP Anniversary and the Daybreak utilize nylon, a softer plastic material that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. The duller and rounder sound created by the nylon material provides a unique tactile experience for users, enhancing the overall typing feel of the switches.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials plays a key role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By strategically combining polycarbonate and nylon in their housing designs, the CAP Anniversary and the Daybreak offer users a balanced and versatile typing experience with distinct sound profiles for both keypresses and key releases.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall under the medium-heavy category. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Daybreak has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams. In terms of weight, both switches provide a substantial typing experience, with the Daybreak slightly edging out the CAP Anniversary in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the CAP Anniversary more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a heavier push feel may lean towards the Daybreak for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing users with similar results based on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Daybreak offers a slightly shorter keypress compared to the CAP Anniversary. Both switches fall into the category of traditional travel distances, with the Daybreak leaning towards the shallower end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Daybreak for its quicker response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for its quiet operation, with a focus on creating a softer and quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as producing a muted, low-pitched sound, ideal for environments where minimizing noise is important. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is recognized for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and responsive feel with a sense of polish in each keystroke. Similarly, the Durock Daybreak switch is also described as polished, providing a refined and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a premium feel to enhance the overall typing satisfaction for users seeking a high-quality linear switch option.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Durock Daybreak switches may differ slightly in sound attributes, such as quietness and pitch, their shared focus on providing a smooth, polished typing experience highlights the high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail present in both switches. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the Daybreak switch, you can expect a similar level of superior performance and satisfaction in your mechanical keyboard typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams and value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heftier typing experience with a bottom out force of 67 grams and prioritize quiet operation in settings where noise reduction is essential, the Daybreak switch could be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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