Durock Daybreak vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Invyr Holy Panda mechanical keyboard switches, two distinct choices emerge for enthusiasts looking for specific typing experiences. The Daybreak, a linear switch, offers a solid 67g actuation force, providing a heftier touch that is well-suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Its quiet operation makes it an excellent option for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Holy Panda, a tactile switch, stands out for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke. The pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance of the Holy Panda appeal to tactile switch enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Invyr Holy Panda, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the plastic's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound that is especially beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Daybreak and Holy Panda differ in their bottom housings, with the Daybreak utilizing a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Holy Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar quality in sound profile to the Daybreak.
Despite the similarities in their use of polycarbonate top housings, the Durock Daybreak and Invyr Holy Panda ultimately differ in sound profile due to their nylon bottom housings. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a consistent high-quality sound, the switch's overall sound is ultimately affected by the bottom housing material. The Daybreak's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a unique typing experience that differs from the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing. This demonstrates how the combination of top and bottom housing materials can greatly influence the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In terms of user experience, the differences between the Daybreak and Holy Panda's housing materials become more apparent when considering key press and release actions. The bottom housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material will have more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials highlights how the design and composition of a switch's housings can affect the overall typing experience, with the Daybreak and Holy Panda offering distinct qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, making them medium-heavy switches. The Daybreak switch has an actuation force of None grams, while the Holy Panda's actuation force is also None grams, indicating that both switches require a similar amount of force to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, either switch would be a good choice. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, both switches would also be suitable due to their medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Daybreak will provide a slightly quicker keypress compared to the Holy Panda. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and should provide a similar typing experience overall. Some users may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Daybreak for its faster response time, while others may gravitate towards the Holy Panda for its slightly deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Invyr Holy Panda has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holy Panda for $7.17.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter workspace. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch is known for its satisfyingly bright and pronounced "clack" sound with each keystroke. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Daybreak provides a softer and quieter touch compared to the Holy Panda's more resonant and tactile sound.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch boasts an invigorating and sharp tactile bump, providing a pronounced feedback with every keypress. With an accented and snappy feel, the Holy Panda offers a tactile experience that is not overwhelming yet still distinctive and satisfying. Both switches provide a different tactile experience, with the Daybreak focusing on a polished and smooth feel, while the Holy Panda delivers a more pronounced and snappy tactile response.
Overall, choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch will depend on personal preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Daybreak may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a brighter and more tactile typing experience with pronounced feedback, the Holy Panda could be the switch of choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and selecting the right one will enhance your overall typing experience based on your liking of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Daybreak linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfying "clack" sound, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences and environment when choosing between these two exceptional switches to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
