Durock Daybreak vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and Akko Fairy both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g weight that provides a heftier typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial touch. Its quiet operation also makes it suitable for workspaces where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy is also a linear switch but stands out for its refined factory-applied lubrication that ensures a smooth typing experience. With a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, the Fairy switches are perfect for office settings and extended use. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Akko Fairy, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, creating a unique typing experience for users of both switches. While the specific design of the bottom housing may vary slightly between the Daybreak and the Fairy, the overall qualities of nylon remain consistent in providing a satisfying typing feel.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Daybreak and the Fairy differ, with the Daybreak featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Fairy utilizing a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to nylon. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the Daybreak switch. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Fairy contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users seeking a more muted and rounded sound.
While the top housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Akko Fairy offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics, the bottom housing materials provide a similar typing experience for users. Both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing create a deep and full sound profile that enhances the overall typing feel. The impact of the bottom housing is felt most strongly during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Overall, the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience for users to enjoy.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch both offer a different typing experience in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires no initial force to trigger a keystroke, while the Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams. This makes the Daybreak lighter in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Daybreak has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Fairy's 60 grams. This means that the Daybreak provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel when pressing keys all the way down. This makes the Daybreak better suited for those looking for a keyboard with a heavier typing feel, while the Fairy is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique benefits depending on the user's preference, with the Daybreak being the heavier option in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. The Daybreak switch is slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Fairy switch, with 0.5 mm of a difference. This means that the Daybreak switch might provide a slightly deeper key press compared to the Fairy switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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, both the Durock Daybreak and Akko Fairy switches are known for their muted characteristic, producing softer and quieter typing sounds that are ideal for shared workspaces or areas where noise reduction is crucial. While the Daybreak offers a low-pitched tone for a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, the Fairy provides a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two will largely depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard configuration.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Daybreak and Fairy switches are polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Fairy switches are described as providing a mild and subtle typing feel, offering a gentle resistance that is approachable and suitable for shared spaces. The Daybreak, on the other hand, does not have specific descriptors beyond being polished, indicating a high-quality feel that aligns with the premium construction of the switch. Ultimately, both switches promise a comfortable typing experience that caters to varying preferences and needs.
In conclusion, both the Durock Daybreak and Akko Fairy linear switches offer impressive qualities in terms of sound and feel, making them excellent choices for users looking for a balance of performance and comfort. While the Daybreak provides a heavier actuation force and a lower-pitched sound profile, the Fairy offers a more neutral sound and a milder, subtler typing feel. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a premium, polished experience with quiet operation and smooth key travel. Whether you opt for the Daybreak or the Fairy, you're likely to achieve similar satisfying results in your typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak and Akko Fairy linear switches, consider your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience with a lighter touch and factory-applied lubrication for extended use in office settings, the Akko Fairy linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your personal typing needs and workspace environment before making a decision.
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