Durock Daybreak vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Grapefruit both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch renowned for its solid 67g weight, delivering a robust typing experience favored by those who prefer a heavier touch. Additionally, its quiet operation makes it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments like workspaces. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit stands out for its light and soft typing feel, accompanied by a deep sound profile that is not bass-heavy but rather has a "baritone" quality. While the Daybreak is 'Polished,' 'Muted,' and 'Low-pitched,' the Grapefruit is 'Low-pitched,' 'Neutral,' and 'Polished.' Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and purposes. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Grapefruit, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings that produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. While both switches share these characteristics in their top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Daybreak utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Grapefruit also features a nylon bottom housing, leading to a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound.
Despite the similarities in the top housing material of polycarbonate, the Daybreak and Grapefruit switches differ in the impact of their bottom housing on the typing experience. The bottom housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, influences the sound and feel of the bottom-out action when pressing down a key. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile that results from the softer plastic's sound-absorbing properties. Conversely, the impact of the top housing material is more noticeable when letting go of a key, affecting the overall sound profile of the switch.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Grapefruit utilize polycarbonate top housings to create a sharp and clear sound profile, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound quality, offering a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of these switches results in a well-rounded sound profile that caters to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch to the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unspecified. In contrast, the Grapefruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is medium-light. These differences in force levels cater to different typing preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Grapefruit switch, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Daybreak switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the desired typing experience, with the Daybreak offering a heavier feel and the Grapefruit providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the Daybreak offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, some may find it to be too abrupt. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and key press depth. Overall, both switches offer similar results but cater to different preferences in terms of key press feel.
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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 characteristics, offering a quieter typing experience with a deeper tone. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch also provides a low-pitched sound profile but with a more neutral and versatile tone. Both switches aim to minimize noise while providing a satisfying auditory experience, making them suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard used and keycaps installed.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Daybreak and KTT Grapefruit switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The polished finish of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall feel of typing on them. Whether you prefer a heavier touch with the Daybreak or a lighter touch with the Grapefruit, both switches prioritize comfort and performance for extended typing sessions.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Durock Daybreak and KTT Grapefruit linear switches, it is evident that they each offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Daybreak provides a heavier typing experience with a muted and low-pitched sound, the Grapefruit offers a softer and lighter typing feel with a more neutral sound profile. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. However, with both switches being polished, you can expect a similarly smooth and refined feel from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak and KTT Grapefruit linear switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a heavier touch and a quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force may be the better choice for you, especially in a workspace where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a unique sound profile, the Grapefruit's 53g bottom out force and "baritone" sound may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in typing feel and sound characteristics.
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