Durock Daybreak vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and HMX Hibiscus mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts will find intriguing options that cater to different typing preferences. The Durock Daybreak, with its solid 67g actuation force, offers a heftier typing experience appreciated by users seeking a more substantial tactile feedback. Its quiet operation and categorized sound profile of "Polished," "Muted," and "Low-pitched" make it an ideal choice for work environments or quieter settings, where discretion is key. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus stands out with an ultra-light actuation force that allows for rapid and effortless keystrokes, appealing to those who prioritize speed and comfort. Coupled with a satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound signature, the Hibiscus provides a more energetic typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to distinct user preferences—whether you value a robust typing feel or a light and dynamic response. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and HMX Hibiscus keyboards showcase distinct materials in their top housing, which significantly influence their overall sound profiles. The Daybreak features a polycarbonate top housing that is renowned for its sharpness and clarity. This stiffer plastic produces a higher-pitched sound that resonates crisply, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the Hibiscus opts for a nylon top housing, known for its softer properties that create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The material absorbs more sound, resulting in a sound that is markedly duller and rounder than that produced by the Daybreak. This fundamental difference in top housing materials means that users can expect noticeably different auditory experiences from the two switches when typing or gaming.
When it comes to the bottom housing, however, both the Durock Daybreak and HMX Hibiscus utilize nylon materials. This similarity means that the impact on sound and feel during key presses is consistent between the two switches. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper bottom-out sound, effectively absorbing sound waves and providing a smooth tactile experience. Since both switches share this bottom housing material, users will find that the characteristics associated with typing and bottom-out sensations are aligned, regardless of the top housing material differences. Thus, players who prioritize the key's feel during pressing will find similar outcomes stemming from the shared aspects of the bottom housing.
Overall, the contrast between the Daybreak’s polycarbonate top housing and Hibiscus’s nylon top housing results in two very different auditory experiences, while the shared nylon bottom housing serves to maintain a common ground in terms of tactile response. The polycarbonate in the Daybreak enhances sharpness and clarity, whereas the nylon in the Hibiscus promotes a fuller, quieter sound profile. Consequently, the two switches appeal to different preferences regarding auditory feedback, but share a consistent key feel owing to their common bottom housing material. This combination allows users to cater their choice based on their sound profile preference while still enjoying the familiar and deep sensation provided by the nylon bottom housing in both products.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch to the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, the differences in their force characteristics are quite pronounced. The Daybreak switch features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the actuation force remains unspecified. In contrast, the Hibiscus switch has a notably lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Hibiscus is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Daybreak's heavier bottom out force might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. The lack of a specified actuation force for the Daybreak prohibits a direct comparison in that regard, but if both switches had the same actuation force, users would experience similar keystroke responsiveness. Since the Hibiscus is lighter overall, it stands out as the more suitable choice for those seeking ease of use, while the Daybreak provides a heftier push for users who favor a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, it is clear that the Daybreak offers a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Hibiscus has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm may seem minimal, but it can significantly influence the typing experience. If you prefer a more responsive feel typically favored by gamers, the Hibiscus's shorter travel distance could provide quicker actuation and a snappier response. Conversely, if you enjoy a more tactile experience with a deeper press, the Daybreak's longer travel distance might be more appealing. Ultimately, your choice would depend on your preference for response speed versus depth in key presses.
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 HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the Durock Daybreak switch is characterized by its muted and low-pitched qualities, delivering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to more traditional switches. This low-pitched tone offers a bass-heavy undertone that minimizes the mechanical noise typically associated with keyboard use, making it ideal for environments where discretion is necessary. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switch presents an entirely different auditory experience with its clacky and poppy sound signature, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. This contrast in sound offers users the choice between a subdued ambiance and an engaging auditory performance, depending on their preference and the setting.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak excels with a polished design that contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience. Users can expect minimal friction and effortless key travel, which enhances typing efficiency and comfort over extended periods. The polished nature of these switches is a result of quality materials and likely factory lubrication, ensuring a premium tactile sensation. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus lacks specified descriptors for its feel, leaving it uncertain how it may compare against the Daybreak in terms of tactile feedback, smoothness, or overall typing experience.
In summary, the Durock Daybreak and HMX Hibiscus linear switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Daybreak offers a muted, low-pitched sound alongside a polished, smooth feel, making it great for quiet settings. In contrast, the Hibiscus enchants with its clacky, poppy sound, though its tactile qualities remain unspecified. The choice between these switches ultimately hinges on whether one prioritizes a quieter, more refined experience or a playful and vibrant auditory engagement, as both aim to provide satisfying user experiences in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Hibiscus linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use them. If you favor a heavier, more tactile typing experience with a bottom-out force of 67 grams, the Daybreak switches are an excellent choice. Their muted, low-pitched sound profile makes them perfect for office settings or quiet zones where noise reduction is paramount, while their polished feel ensures a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a lighter actuation force and crave a more dynamic, satisfying sound signature, the Hibiscus switches could be the way to go. Clocking in at just 48 grams, these switches offer exceptional smoothness and a clacky, poppy auditory feedback, making them suitable for vibrant environments or for those who enjoy a more expressive typing experience. Ultimately, consider the balance of force, sound, and feel that you desire in your mechanical keyboard, as each switch brings its unique advantages to the table.
Mentioned in this article
