Gateron CM vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the Durock Daybreak mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and performance. The CM stands out with its full nylon housing, offering a unique sound signature that is rich and deep. With a factory lube job for smooth typing and a dual-staged spring for a bouncy feel, the CM switches are often described as 'buttery' and 'creamy'. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak switches boast a heavier 67g actuation force, providing a weightier typing experience while remaining quiet. Their polished and muted sound profile makes them ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While these general pointers may guide your decision, delving deeper into the nuances of each switch will help you choose the best one for your individual preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Durock Daybreak both use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This characteristic of nylon allows for a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. However, the Daybreak stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the CM's nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Daybreak's top housing leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prioritize sound quality.
In terms of aesthetics, the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing is clear, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing option for those who enjoy customizable lighting effects. On the other hand, the CM's nylon top and bottom housing offer a more classic look without the translucent properties of polycarbonate. Both switches provide a unique typing experience with their different housing materials, catering to users with varying preferences for sound and appearance. While the CM and Daybreak differ in their top housing material, they both share the benefit of nylon in their bottom housing, contributing to a similar deep and full sound quality when typing.
Overall, the Gateron CM and the Durock Daybreak showcase the importance of top and bottom housing materials in creating a distinct typing experience. While the CM emphasizes the use of nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound, the Daybreak combines the softness of nylon in the bottom housing with the crispness of polycarbonate in the top housing, offering a more dynamic sound profile. Each switch caters to different preferences, whether it be a classic sound with the CM or a modern, visually appealing design with the Daybreak. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile, aesthetics, and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it is clear that the CM is lighter in terms of actuation force at 55 grams compared to the Daybreak's unknown force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Daybreak is the heavier option at 67 grams compared to the CM's 63.5 grams. This means that the Daybreak provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the CM may be the better choice. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel, the Daybreak with its heavier bottom out force may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Durock Daybreak linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Gateron CM may be more appealing to those who prioritize speed and quick key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more deliberate and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the typing experience each individual user is seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 CM linear switch is best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is characterized as muted and low-pitched, providing a softer and quieter sound experience. While the CM switch emphasizes a bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Daybreak switch focuses on minimizing noise for a more subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is often described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and uniform typing sensation with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is noted for its polished finish, providing a sleek typing experience with smooth key travel similar to the CM switch. Both switches aim to deliver a refined and comfortable typing experience, albeit with slight variations in their tactile feedback.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Gateron CM linear switch excels in providing a bold and deep sound signature with a bouncy typing experience, thanks to its unique nylon housing and dual-staged spring design. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a heavier typing experience with quiet operation, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, while the subjective qualities of both switches differ slightly in terms of sound and feel, users can expect comparable results in terms of smoothness and overall typing satisfaction from either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Gateron CM if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a deep and rich sound profile. The full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job of the CM switches deliver a smooth typing journey with each keystroke. On the other hand, opt for the Durock Daybreak if you enjoy a heftier typing experience with a quiet operation. The heavy actuation force of the Daybreak switches is complemented by their muted sound profile, making them ideal for workspace environments where noise reduction is essential. Ultimately, your preference for typing feel and sound profile will determine which switch is the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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