Durock Daybreak vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and Jwick Ginger Milk mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they both offer unique typing experiences. The Daybreak switch is a linear switch with a solid 67g actuation force, providing a heavier touch that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Not only are they quiet in operation, making them suitable for environments where noise needs to be kept to a minimum, but they are also described as polished, muted, and low-pitched. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch also falls under the linear switch category and is known for its soft and pastel appearance, reflecting the smooth and approachable push feel it offers. With a muted, snappy sound profile, these switches are categorized as neutral and buttery. Each switch has its own unique features and advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the Jwick Ginger Milk feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, they may still have slight variations in sound and feel based on other housing materials used.
While both switches have nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, the keypress experience may vary between the Durock Daybreak and the Jwick Ginger Milk. Nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a duller and rounder sound when typing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing may contribute to differences in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Durock Daybreak and the Jwick Ginger Milk offers a unique typing experience with a blend of sharp, crisp sounds and deeper, fuller tones. The split between the top and bottom housings impacts both the downstroke and upstroke sounds and feels of the switch, providing a balance of qualities from each material. While both switches aim to provide satisfying typing experiences, the specific characteristics of the housing materials may result in subtle differences in sound and tactile feedback between the Durock Daybreak and the Jwick Ginger Milk.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, it is clear that the Daybreak is lighter in terms of actuation force, as it requires None grams compared to the Ginger Milk's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Daybreak is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Ginger Milk's 63.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Ginger Milk, while the heavier bottom out force of the Daybreak may offer a more solid typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress, the Daybreak may provide a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of 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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 switches are known for their muted and low-pitched profile, creating a quieter and bass-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches offer a more neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a variety of environments and user preferences. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant auditory experience, but the Daybreak leans towards a quieter and deeper tone while the Ginger Milk maintains a versatile sound suitable for all users. When using either switch, the sound produced will also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Daybreak switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. In contrast, the Jwick Ginger Milk switches are described as buttery, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke with a seamless and effortless sensation. Both switches prioritize providing a comfortable and satisfying typing feel, but the Daybreak focuses on a polished finish for refined key travel while the Ginger Milk highlights a buttery smooth sensation for effortless typing. Regardless of the choice between the two, users can expect a high level of comfort and satisfaction during typing sessions with either switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak and Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Daybreak leans towards a quieter and deeper sound profile with a polished typing experience, while the Ginger Milk provides a more versatile sound and a buttery smooth feel for effortless typing. Both switches aim to provide users with a pleasant and satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences and environments. Ultimately, whether choosing the Daybreak or Ginger Milk, users can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that delivers a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switches or the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Daybreak switches with a bottom out force of 67 grams may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and more approachable typing feel with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Jwick Ginger Milk switches may be the way to go. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feelings that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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