Durock Daybreak vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak boasts a solid 67g actuation force, providing a heavier typing experience that appeals to those who prefer a more substantial touch. Its quiet operation makes it ideal for environments where noise reduction is crucial, and its categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Lavender switch stands out for its smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. Users can expect a crisp and clacky sound signature that enhances each keystroke, with a classification of 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky'. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Zuoce Lavender, we see a stark contrast in their top housing materials. The Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This makes it ideal for RGB lighting applications, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. On the other hand, the Lavender features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the Daybreak's polycarbonate housing is better suited for those looking for a crisper sound, while the Lavender's POM housing provides a smoother, more subdued typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, we see a more subtle difference between the two switches. The Daybreak incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This allows for a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Conversely, the Lavender also utilizes a POM bottom housing, resulting in a similarly deep and muted sound profile. Both materials provide a pleasing typing experience, with the nylon housing offering a slightly softer sound compared to the POM housing. Overall, the bottom housing materials of these switches contribute to their overall sound signature and feel while typing.
It's interesting to note that while the top and bottom housing materials of the Daybreak and the Lavender differ, they both aim to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. The split in housing materials allows for a balance of qualities in both the sound profile and tactile feel of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during bottom-out, contributing to the overall sound and feel of typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is clear that the Daybreak requires no actuation force while the Lavender needs 48 grams. On the other hand, the Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Lavender requires 53 grams. This makes the Lavender the lighter switch in terms of actuation force, while the Daybreak is the heavier switch in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Lavender may be the better option. On the contrary, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Daybreak may be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the Daybreak switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly deeper and more tactile feel when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the level of keypress depth and tactility desired.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards while providing a deeper, mellower tone. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch produces a distinctively clacky sound, giving each keystroke a sharp and snappy quality. Depending on personal preference, the Daybreak's quiet operation may be more suitable for shared workspaces, while the Lavender's crisp sound signature may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced typing noise.
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Conversely, the Zuoce Lavender switch is characterized by an easy-to-press design, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive, low-impact feel. Depending on personal preference, the Daybreak's polished feel may be favored by those who appreciate a sleek typing experience, while the Lavender's easy-to-press nature may appeal to typists looking for a comfortable and effortless typing session.
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Daybreak provides a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation and polished feel, the Lavender offers exceptional smoothness, a clacky sound signature, and an easy-to-press design. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your typing experience, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a more muted and low-pitched sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Daybreak switch's 67g bottom out force provides a satisfying feel for those who enjoy a more substantial touch while maintaining a quiet operation. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and an easy-to-press feel with a crisp and clacky sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is the way to go. The Lavender's 53g bottom out force and proprietary Ly blend offer a distinct typing experience that focuses on smoothness and responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice between the Daybreak and Lavender switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. So, consider these factors carefully to make the best decision for your keyboard setup.
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