Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Ink Box Pink mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Daybreak offers a solid 67g actuation force, providing a hefty typing experience ideal for those who prefer more significant touch feedback. Its quiet operation makes it a perfect choice for workspaces where noise reduction is essential. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switches are smooth and have a lighter typing feel, with a higher-pitched clack when used. While the Daybreak is polished, muted, and low-pitched, the Ink Box Pink is clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
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 Gateron Ink Box Pink differ in terms of their top housing. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches featuring a clear polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While both housing materials offer unique sound profiles, the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing is best suited for those looking for a clear and resonant sound, while the Ink Box Pink's INK blend top housing is ideal for those seeking a high-pitched clacky sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Daybreak features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. In comparison, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile similar to its top housing. Both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, with the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound, while the Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing offers a higher-pitched clacky sound.
While the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Ink Box Pink differ in terms of their top and bottom housing, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom of the switches provide distinct typing experiences. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing impacts the sound when letting go of a key. Whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound profile with the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing or a high-pitched clacky sound with the Ink Box Pink's INK blend top housing, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Durock Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams, and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is categorized as medium. The Ink Box Pink is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Daybreak, but both switches have similar bottom out forces. This means that typing with either switch may provide similar results in terms of bottoming out, but the Daybreak may require a bit more force to initially trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force or a more substantial typing experience with a heavier force.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Daybreak being slightly longer than the Ink Box Pink. Gamers looking for faster response times may favor the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Daybreak. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
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 Gateron Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. With a heavier actuation force of 67g, these switches provide a solid and heftier touch while remaining relatively silent, making them ideal for workspaces or quiet environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound that adds a crisp and bright tone to your typing. With a lighter typing feel, these switches offer a smooth and silky touch, enhancing the overall typing experience with minimized resistance.
When comparing the two switches, the Daybreak is best suited for those who prefer a heavier touch and a more subdued typing sound, while the Ink Box Pink is perfect for individuals looking for a lighter feel with a sharper and more audible typing sound. Both switches offer polished finishes, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing force, sound profile, and overall feel. Whether you opt for the Daybreak for a heavier, muted experience or the Ink Box Pink for a lighter, clacky feel, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a quieter operation and a muted, low-pitched sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch would be a great choice. It provides a heftier typing experience and is ideal for workspaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is the way to go. It offers smooth keypresses and a more mellow tone, making it a great option for those who enjoy a crisper sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Ink Box Pink will depend on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and typing feel.
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