Durock Daybreak vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences to suit different preferences. The Daybreak is characterized by its solid 67g actuation force, providing a heftier touch for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Known for its quiet operation and muted low-pitched sound, the Daybreak is an excellent choice for workspaces or settings where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, the Holly stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users seeking a balanced and distinctive typing experience. While the Daybreak offers a polished and quiet typing experience, the Holly provides a more lively and distinctive typing feel. 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
N/A
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
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
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and Dareu Holly are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic. However, the differences may lie in their nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of both switches produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
While the top housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and Dareu Holly are the same, their bottom housing materials differ. The split in qualities between the nylon bottom housing of both switches impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches still offer a clear and resonant sound profile with the polycarbonate top housing, providing a consistent experience in terms of sharpness and clarity of sound.
In conclusion, the usage of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Durock Daybreak and Dareu Holly results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, creating a contrast to the sharper sound produced by the top housing. Overall, while there may be subtle differences in sound and feel due to the housing materials, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique combination of materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch reveals some significant differences. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the actuation force is unspecified. In contrast, the Holly has an actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Daybreak is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Holly. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Holly for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Daybreak for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Dareu Holly tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Daybreak being on the quicker side and the Holly providing a bit more depth. Gamers may lean towards the Daybreak for its faster response time, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the Holly. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but with slight differences in travel distance.
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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, ensuring a quiet operation ideal for shared workspaces or environments where noise needs to be minimized. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch provides a unique sound profile with chirpy and clacky elements, catering to users seeking a distinctive and balanced typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Daybreak offers a quieter and bass-heavy sound, while the Holly delivers a more lively and percussive typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the tactile feel of the Dareu Holly switch. However, based on the actuation force and sound profile described, the Holly switch may offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience compared to the Daybreak.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch excels in providing a heavier actuation force with a quiet and low-pitched sound, accompanied by a polished and refined feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a medium actuation force with a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sound elements, catering to users looking for a distinctive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switch or the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium actuation force and a unique sound signature with chirpy and clacky elements, the Holly could be the switch that better suits your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your typing habits and preferences before making a decision.
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