Durock Daybreak vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and TTC Honey mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak switch is known for its solid 67g weight, providing a substantial typing experience favored by those who like a heavier touch. Its quiet operation makes it suitable for environments where noise must be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch offers a smooth and creamy typing feel with a deep and pleasant sound profile. While the Daybreak is characterized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Honey is described as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the specific qualities you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the TTC Honey, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches allows for a more clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Daybreak features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Honey utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing.
The contrasting housing materials of the Daybreak and the Honey result in differences in sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches offer a sharp and clear sound profile in their polycarbonate top housing, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on the Daybreak with its nylon bottom housing may elicit a duller and rounder sound, while the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the sharpness and resonance of each keystroke. These differences in bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the TTC Honey may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the contrasting bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. If a softer, deeper sound profile is preferred, the Daybreak with its nylon bottom housing may be the preferred option. On the other hand, the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound experience. Regardless of the choice, understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help in selecting the switch that best suits individual preferences.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the TTC Honey linear switch's 50 grams, making it a medium-heavy option while the Honey is on the lighter side. The Daybreak does not specify an actuation force, while the Honey has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Daybreak may be the preferred choice due to its higher bottom out force. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may opt for the TTC Honey switch. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. In terms of comparing and contrasting, since both switches have the same travel distance, there is no difference in this aspect between the Daybreak and Honey switches. So, whether you opt for the Daybreak or Honey linear switch, you can expect to feel the same travel distance when typing.
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 TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter and more bass-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch is described as having a subdued sound, giving off a dampened and subtle sound signature. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience, making them suitable for shared spaces or work environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
When it comes to feel, the Daybreak switch is recognized for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Honey switch, on the other hand, is praised for its creamy, frictionless, buttery, and subtle feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Both switches provide a sleek typing experience, with the Honey switch offering a more luxurious and silky feel compared to the Daybreak.
Overall, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch have some differences in sound and feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience. Whether you prefer a heavier touch with a muted sound like the Daybreak or a smoother, creamier feel like the Honey, you can expect a premium typing experience with either switch choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switch or the TTC Honey linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch and a smooth, creamy typing feel with a pleasant sound profile, the Honey switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits, so it is essential to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Daybreak and the Honey switch will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.
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