Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, a clear distinction can be made between the two based on their unique features. The Daybreak offers a hefty typing experience with its 67g actuation force, providing a solid touch while maintaining a quiet operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown presents a blend of tradition and innovation with its tactile feedback and medium-heavy weight, offering a classic keystroke feel with enhanced softer backlight effects. While the Daybreak is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched, the Jupiter Brown is categorized as 'Mild', 'Polished', 'Stepped'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences in typing experience and aesthetics. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Jupiter Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Daybreak and Jupiter Brown also differ in their bottom housings, with the Daybreak utilizing a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Jupiter Brown also features a nylon bottom housing but with a different design that absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, the difference in their bottom housings affects the overall typing experience. The Daybreak's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In conclusion, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of switches like the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Jupiter Brown can lead to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in their nylon bottom housings affects the depth and fullness of the sound when typing. Understanding the role of each housing material can help keyboard enthusiasts choose switches that best suit their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it can be seen that the Daybreak has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Jupiter Brown's 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Daybreak at 67 grams and the Jupiter Brown at 70 grams, making them both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of typing pressure. The lighter actuation force of the Daybreak may cater more to individuals looking for a quicker keystroke response, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Jupiter Brown could provide a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding typing speed and key feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the Daybreak offers a slightly shallower actuation. Gamers might prefer the Daybreak for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Jupiter Brown with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Jupiter Brown remains unknown. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gateron Jupiter Brown, on the other hand, offers a mild and approachable typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown features a stepped feel, giving users the sensation of a two-stage keystroke experience.
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches offer high-quality performance with their own unique characteristics. While the Daybreak provides a heavier actuation force and quiet operation, the Jupiter Brown offers a medium-heavy weight and a blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you prefer a heavier touch with a muted sound or a more classic tactile feel with softer backlight effects, both switches deliver reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for, but rest assured that you will get satisfying results with either option.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a heavier touch with a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak switch with its 67g bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more classic tactile feel with a medium-heavy weight and are looking for a switch with enhanced softer backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch may be more suited to your tastes. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and needs.
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