Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offer distinct typing experiences. The Daybreak features a hefty 67g actuation force, providing a solid and weighty touch while maintaining quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, delivering a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that enhances typing flow. While the Daybreak is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', the G Pro 3.0 Brown falls under 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Stepped'. Each switch has its strengths and appeal, but 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, we see that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting applications. As both switches feature this material in their top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Daybreak utilizes nylon while the G Pro 3.0 Brown also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound and produce a rounder and duller sound. With both switches utilizing nylon in their bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with a focus on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of a switch. While both the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the difference in their bottom housings, with both switches utilizing nylon, will impact the overall sound profile in terms of depth and fullness. Users can expect a unique typing experience with each switch based on the combination of housing materials used.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Daybreak at 67 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Brown at 63 grams. The Daybreak is heavier in terms of actuation force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown is lighter in this aspect, providing a smoother typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer a medium amount of resistance for bottoming out, giving users a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation force for your typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Daybreak switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience based on personal preference. Gamers seeking quicker response times may prefer the Daybreak switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference and the type of typing or gaming 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 Durock Daybreak switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Daybreak leaning towards a quieter operation while the G Pro Brown offers a more distinct auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is characterized as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. The G Pro Brown also offers a mild typing experience with a stepped feel, allowing for a comfortable and low-impact typing feel. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Daybreak focusing on a polished and refined feel while the G Pro Brown provides an easy-to-press typing experience with a gentle bump.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Daybreak is known for its heavy actuation force and muted, low-pitched sound along with a polished, smooth feel. On the other hand, the G Pro Brown provides a medium-high pitch sound with a gentle, tactile sensation and easy-to-press feel. Depending on whether you prefer a quieter, heavier typing experience or a more distinct auditory feedback with gentle resistance, both switches offer distinct qualities that will enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two excellent switch options.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and enjoy a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile sensation with a lighter actuation force and enjoy RGB lighting effects, the G Pro Brown could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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