Durock Daybreak vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Daybreak offers a solid 67g actuation force, providing a weightier typing experience that is both quiet and polished. It is ideal for those looking for a more substantial touch while working in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a softer and more refined typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches. It provides a unique jelly-like sound signature that adds to its appeal. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and Durock Light Tactile switches share similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches differ in their use of nylon. The Daybreak's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a similar sound profile, showcasing the classic qualities of nylon in switch housing materials. This difference in bottom housing materials allows for a variation in sound and feel when typing on each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Daybreak and Light Tactile switches impacts the overall typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the difference in nylon bottom housing materials provides a unique typing experience for each switch. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Daybreak or a deeper sound with the Light Tactile, both switches offer a high-quality housing construction that enhances the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer different experiences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of initial force required to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams, which is slightly heavier. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel when pressing down all the way. When considering weight, it's important to note that lighter switches like the Daybreak may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Daybreak being on the shorter end while the Light Tactile is slightly longer and more traditional. Gamers may prefer the Daybreak for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Light Tactile with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics. This means that users can expect a softer and quieter typing experience with a more bass-heavy tone, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users regardless of their typing preferences. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle tactility along with a jelly-like sound signature, offering a unique and soothing typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Daybreak linear switch is described as polished, providing a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a more premium feel for users who appreciate a smoother switch operation. On the other hand, the Light Tactile tactile switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, like the Daybreak, the Light Tactile switch is also described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience for users who value a sleek feel.
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak provides a heavier typing experience with muted and low-pitched sound characteristics, while the Light Tactile offers a gentler tactility and a more neutral sound profile. Both switches feature a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak linear switch with its 67g bottom out force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer tactile feel with a gentle typing experience, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, also with a 67g bottom out force, would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a heavier touch or a more gentle tactility in your mechanical keyboard.
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