Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Daybreak offers a solid 67g actuation force, providing a weightier typing experience that is perfect for those who prefer a more significant touch. Its quiet operation makes it ideal for workspaces where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White boasts a lighter actuation force of only 38g, making it well-suited for delicate typists who prefer effortless and sensitive keystrokes. With its brighter RGB lighting and satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro White offers a premium typing experience at a budget-friendly price. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. This means that users of both switches can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics when it comes to the top housing material.
On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Daybreak utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel when pressing down on the switches.
In terms of overall typing experience, the different housing materials of the top and bottom for each switch will affect the sound and feel differently. The bottom housing's qualities will be more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, users of both the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White can expect a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles influenced by their respective housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch reveals some key differences. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter with a bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force for the Daybreak is unspecified, while the G Pro 3.0 White requires 38 grams to trigger a keystroke. The Daybreak may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White's lighter weight may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these switches offer a variety of options for users depending on their preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Durock Daybreak. The difference may not be significant, but for those who are sensitive to keypress feel, it could make a difference. The shorter travel distance of the Daybreak may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the G Pro 3.0 White's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
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 linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience suitable for environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a clacky sound with a medium-high pitch, providing a crisp and bright auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, with the Daybreak offering a more subdued tone compared to the G Pro 3.0 White.
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience thanks to its sleek finish. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle characteristics, providing a buttery sensation with minimal resistance during key presses. This results in a comfortable and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue, making it suitable for extended typing sessions such as gaming or work. Ultimately, the choice between the Daybreak and G Pro 3.0 White will depend on individual preferences for typing feel, with the Daybreak offering a polished finish compared to the smooth and buttery sensation of the G Pro 3.0 White.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Daybreak excels in providing a muted and low-pitched sound profile with a polished typing feel, while the G Pro 3.0 White offers a clacky sound with a creamy and easy-to-press typing sensation. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their typing style and environment. Ultimately, choosing between the Daybreak and G Pro 3.0 White will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a bottom out force of 67 grams and a muted, low-pitched sound, then the Daybreak switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 45 grams and a clacky, neutral, or subdued sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White switch could be more suitable. Additionally, if you seek a polished feel, the Daybreak may be your preference, while the G Pro 3.0 White offers a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, or subtle typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences and typing style to ensure an optimal keyboarding experience.
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