Durock Daybreak vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, it's clear that each offers a distinct typing experience. The Daybreak's 67g actuation force provides a weighty typing feel while maintaining quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a satisfying typing experience that blends the best of both worlds. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them comes down to personal preference. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and Durock Ice King Tactile keyboards both feature unique housing materials that play a significant role in their sound profiles. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Daybreak's top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, the Ice King Tactile's top housing focuses on creating a rounder and duller sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Daybreak and Ice King Tactile keyboards utilize nylon materials. This choice results in a similar deep and full sound profile for both keyboards, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs sound effectively. The differences in sound between the two keyboards will likely be more pronounced in the top housing materials, where the Daybreak's polycarbonate creates a sharper sound compared to the Ice King Tactile's nylon material. Overall, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Daybreak and Ice King Tactile keyboards offer unique characteristics that complement each other. The division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a balanced sound profile that combines the strengths of both materials. Whether you prefer the sharper and clearer sound of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Daybreak or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Ice King Tactile, both keyboards provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch differ slightly. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Ice King Tactile has a bottom out force of 68 grams, making them both fall into the medium-heavy category. However, the Ice King Tactile has a lower actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Daybreak, whose actuation force is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ice King Tactile may be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Daybreak for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when typing or gaming compared to the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for the slight difference 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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, minimizing noise and providing a calm typing environment. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch produces a subdued sound that is dampened and subtle, creating a more refined auditory experience. Both switches excel in providing a quieter typing sound profile, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is referred to as silky, frictionless, and stepped, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with a unique two-stage tactile feel. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing feel, enhancing the overall comfort and satisfaction of each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer distinct yet equally impressive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Daybreak provides a quieter typing sound and a polished, refined typing experience, the Ice King Tactile offers a more subdued sound and a silky, frictionless keystroke with a unique stepped tactile feel. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, but rest assured, both switches promise a high-quality mechanical typing experience for newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a heavier touch and a quieter operation, the Daybreak linear switch with its 67g bottom out force is a great choice. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smooth and pronounced tactile bump in your typing experience, opt for the Ice King Tactile switch. With its blend of creamy smoothness and satisfying tactility, it offers a unique typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound.
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