Outemu Crystal vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Daybreak mechanical keyboard switches, you may find yourself faced with a decision between a medium-light linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile in the Crystal, or a heftier typing experience with a quieter operation in the Daybreak. The Crystal switch offers a unique feel and sound with its elastic type feel and medium-light weight, making it a standout choice for those seeking a different linear typing experience. On the other hand, the Daybreak switch provides a solid 67g actuation force for a more significant touch while maintaining a quiet operation, ideal for those in workspaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Daybreak switches differ in their bottom housing composition. The Crystal utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Daybreak features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in distinct typing experiences, with the Crystal offering a crisper sound while the Daybreak provides a rounder sound.
In terms of their top housing materials, both the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Daybreak switches use polycarbonate. This consistency in material choice means that both switches will exhibit the same characteristics associated with the stiffness of polycarbonate. Therefore, users can expect a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile from the top housing of either switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches when illuminated.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Daybreak switches showcase how different materials can influence the sound and feel of mechanical key switches. While the polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to a similar sound profile, the contrasting nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings offer distinct typing experiences. Users can choose between the sharper sound of the Crystal with its polycarbonate bottom housing or the deeper sound of the Daybreak with its nylon bottom housing, depending on their preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to the user. The Crystal switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Daybreak switch does not specify an actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions, the Outemu Crystal switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel and a stronger typing experience may lean towards the Durock Daybreak switch.
Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The actuation force and bottom out force of each switch play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. Whether you opt for the lighter actuation force of the Outemu Crystal or the heavier bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak, it is essential to consider your personal typing preferences to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Daybreak slightly shorter in terms of travel distance compared to the Crystal. The 4.0mm of the Crystal is a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the 3.8mm of the Daybreak offers a slightly shallower experience which can appeal to those looking for quicker responses, like gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether one prefers a deeper press or a quicker response.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, adding character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch provides a quieter and more muted sound, ideal for environments where noise reduction is essential. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities, allowing users to choose based on personal preference and setting.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Outemu Crystal and Durock Daybreak are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This similarity ensures that users will experience a consistent level of comfort and precision when typing on either switch.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal and Durock Daybreak linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and a polished feel for typing. The Crystal switch provides a chirpy, high-pitched sound and a medium-light weight, while the Daybreak switch offers a mellow, low-pitched sound and a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and typing feel, as both switches offer a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 55 grams and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier touch with a bottom out force of 67 grams and a quiet operation, the Durock Daybreak switches could be more suitable. Both switches offer a polished feel for smooth key travel. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and sound preference to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
