Durock Daybreak vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and Kailh BCP present two distinct yet appealing options for typists and gamers alike. The Durock Daybreak, with its substantial 67g actuation force, promises a more tactile and impactful typing experience, ideal for those who appreciate a sturdy feel while minimizing noise—making it perfect for quiet work environments. In contrast, the Kailh BCP offers a unique twist on the classic Cherry switch design, featuring a creamy, elastic response that delivers a delightful poppy sound, perfect for users who enjoy an auditory feedback with their keystrokes. While both switches are linear, catering to different sensitivities and tactile preferences, your choice may ultimately hinge on whether you prefer the muted sturdiness of the Daybreak or the lively responsiveness of the BCP. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Kailh BCP switches, there is a distinct contrast in the materials used for their top housings, while their bottom housings both utilize nylon. The Daybreak features a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for its stiffer properties that contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This quality allows for a more resonant and clear auditory experience when typing, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucent nature. In stark contrast, the Kailh BCP employs a nylon top housing, which is traditional in switch design and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This difference in top housing materials indicates that the Daybreak will likely deliver a more pronounced sound when keys are released, while the BCP will produce a more muted and rounded auditory response.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, which inherently absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This similarity results in both switches having a fuller and deeper sound when the keys are bottomed out. The nylon's softer characteristics allow for a reduced impact noise when a key is pressed, contributing to a quieter overall typing experience for both switches. Therefore, while the top housings of the Daybreak and BCP exhibit differing sound profiles and aesthetics due to the materials used, their bottom housings provide a consistent auditory experience that emphasizes sound absorption and a more subdued bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the differing materials of the top housings serve to complement the same underlying behavior provided by the nylon bottom housings in both the Durock Daybreak and Kailh BCP switches. That makes it possible to achieve unique auditory experiences: the sharper and crisper release sound of the Daybreak combines with the full-bodied bottom-out sound provided by both switches’ nylon bottom, while the BCP’s plush and rounded sound is enhanced similarly. This shared nylon material demonstrates that both switches can yield comparable results in terms of sound absorption and bottom-out characteristics, despite their contrasting top housing designs. Thus, while the user experience may vary, particularly during key release, the overall auditory dynamics will retain elements of similarity due to the common bottom housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak switch has an unknown actuation force, which means we cannot provide a direct comparison for this metric. However, its bottom out force is 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This indicates that while the BCP switch requires less force to actuate, the Daybreak switch has a higher resistance when fully depressed. As a result, for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use, the Kailh BCP is the better choice, while those who favor a heavier and more substantial feel may lean toward the Daybreak. Overall, the BCP is lighter in actuation force, while the Daybreak is the heavier option in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh BCP linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Daybreak the longer of the two switches, providing a more substantial depth when pressed down, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile experience. Conversely, the BCP's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Users who enjoy a responsive feel while typing or gaming might gravitate towards the BCP for its quicker engagement, whereas those who favor a more pronounced depth would likely choose the Daybreak. Ultimately, the decision hinges on personal preference regarding the balance between travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 switches shine with their muted and low-pitched characteristics. This means they produce a softer and more refined sound profile, significantly reducing the loud clicking and clacking that can annoy coworkers or disrupt environments requiring focus. The result is a pleasant acoustic experience that allows for quiet typing sessions without sacrificing the mechanical feel. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switches lack a detailed description of their sound, leaving an unknown aspect for potential users. However, it's essential to consider that the overall sound can greatly depend on other elements like the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, which can influence the final auditory experience.
Regarding feel, the Durock Daybreak switches are celebrated for their polished nature, offering users a smooth and luxurious typing experience. This smooth travel is a result of either high-quality materials or factory lubrication, which reduces friction and enhances the overall tactile interaction one experiences while typing. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP linear switches do not provide specific details about their feel. While this creates an uncertainty, it is essential to know that many keyboard enthusiasts appreciate that different types of switches can often lead to similar tactile experiences, depending on personal preference and the design qualities of the keyboard itself.
In conclusion, both the Durock Daybreak and Kailh BCP linear switches offer distinct qualities that appeal to different types of users. The Daybreak makes a strong impression with its quiet operation and polished feel, making it an ideal option for those who prioritize a serene typing environment. Meanwhile, the BCP’s characteristics remain somewhat ambiguous, particularly concerning sound and feel, adding an element of curiosity for potential users. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your priorities regarding noise levels and the tactile experience you desire, but both can contribute to satisfying typing experiences in their respective ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a bottom-out force of 67 grams that provides a more substantial tactile feedback, the Daybreak is an excellent choice. Its muted sound profile makes it particularly suitable for quiet workspaces where minimizing noise is a priority. In contrast, if you’re looking for a switch that offers a bouncier feel with a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the Kailh BCP could be more to your liking. Its unique sound profile adds character to your typing experience, making it a fun choice for those who enjoy a bit of auditory stimulation with each keystroke. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the acoustic environment you'll be in, and whether you gravitate toward a heavier or lighter feel when making your decision.
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