Durock Daybreak vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In comparing the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Laurel mechanical keyboard switches, we see two linear switches that offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak shines with its solid 67g weight, providing a hefty typing experience suited for those who prefer a more substantial touch. Its quiet operation makes it an ideal choice for workspaces or settings where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel boasts a medium-light feel with a full POM housing and a short travel distance, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, it offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on one's typing preferences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Laurel both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Daybreak features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Laurel's POM top housing, which generates a deeper and more muted sound. The clear translucency of polycarbonate allows for better utilization of RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing choice for those looking to add a pop of color to their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Laurel creates a more subtle aesthetic but offers a unique sound experience with its deeper tones.
In terms of bottom housings, the Daybreak utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a rounder and more muffled sound compared to the Laurel's POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound experience. Both housing materials bring their own distinct characteristics to the switches, showcasing the importance of considering the full composition of a switch to achieve the desired sound and feel during typing.
While the Durock Daybreak and KTT Laurel may have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the overall goal remains the same - to create a satisfying typing experience for the user. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings ensure that each part of the switch plays a unique role in shaping the sound and feel of typing on these switches. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing on the Daybreak or the deeper and more muted sound of the POM bottom housing on the Laurel, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience, while its actuation force is not available. On the other hand, the Laurel has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and an actuation force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. The Daybreak would be better for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, while the Laurel is more suited for those who like a lighter keystroke. Ultimately, the weight of a switch is important to consider based on personal preference and intended use, either for longer typing sessions or a more forceful typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Laurel switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Daybreak switch. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Laurel switch to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly deeper feel of the Daybreak switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch also provides a low-pitched sound profile, creating a mellow and bass-heavy tone. When it comes to feel, the Daybreak switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience thanks to its design.
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak and KTT Laurel linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak provides a heavier typing experience with a quiet operation, while the Laurel strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Whether you prefer a muted, polished feel or a snappy, low-pitched sound profile, both switches offer great options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Daybreak linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a balance of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing preferences, workspace environment, and desired sound profile when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both the Daybreak and Laurel have unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Mentioned in this article
