Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak's 67g actuation force provides a heavier touch, perfect for those who appreciate a more substantial typing feel, while its quiet operation makes it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a smoother typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, and its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches have their strengths, making them suitable for a variety of users. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
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 Red, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the top and bottom housings of the Daybreak and G Pro 3.0 Red are the same, the different qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch.
However, despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the specific characteristics of each material may differ slightly between the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing may produce a slightly different sound profile compared to that of the G Pro 3.0 Red, even though they share the same material. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of each switch may have subtle variations in sound and feel due to potential differences in manufacturing or design. These nuances in housing materials may result in slightly different typing experiences between the two switches.
In essence, while both the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red utilize polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the slight variations in sound profile and typing experience may be discernible to enthusiasts or those with a keen ear for mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for the specific qualities and characteristics offered by each housing material. Whether opting for the Daybreak or the G Pro 3.0 Red, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinctive sound profiles unique to their respective housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red a lighter option compared to the Daybreak. The Daybreak is more suited for users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Red is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer different typing experiences, so the choice between them depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Red has the longer travel distance compared to the Daybreak. The Daybreak's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, while the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a difference in travel distance, but ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Daybreak switches offer a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making them ideal for quieter environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches provide a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of settings and users. Depending on your personal preference and the other components of your keyboard setup, you can achieve satisfying typing sound with either switch.
Moving on to feel, the Daybreak switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red switches are noted for their creamy and silky feel, providing a buttery and gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Daybreak leaning towards a polished and refined feel while the G Pro 3.0 Red leans towards a creamy and silky sensation.
In conclusion, both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Daybreak offers a heavier actuation force and a muted, low-pitched sound along with a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a medium-light actuation force, neutral sound profile, and a creamy, silky typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct characteristics. Whether you prefer a heavier touch and quieter sound or a smoother feel and vibrant RGB lighting effects, you can achieve similar levels of typing performance with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter touch with a balance of responsiveness and ease of use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red with its 50g bottom out force could be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a more muted and low-pitched sound, the Daybreak may be more appealing, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more neutral sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Daybreak provides a polished typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy and mild sensation with its lubricated switches. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing force, sound, and feel.
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