Durock Daybreak vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch. The Durock Daybreak switches are known for their solid 67g weight, providing a substantial typing experience that is favored by those who prefer a heavier touch. Not only do these switches offer a heavy actuation force, but they also operate quietly, making them ideal for workspaces or any environment where minimizing noise is crucial. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switches feature a medium weight of 50g and a bright, resonant sound that gives each keystroke a satisfying bounce. While both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, the Daybreak is praised for its polished, muted, and low-pitched profile, while the Lotus is known for its bouncy feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Lotus provide unique sound profiles and aesthetics based on their composition. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness, creating a resonant and clear sound profile. In contrast, the Lotus's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials offer distinct characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while nylon provides a classic feel and sound profile.
The bottom housings of both switches share the same nylon material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. This consistency in material results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Lotus. However, the split between top and bottom housing allows for different impacts on the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, offering a comprehensive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Lotus showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a similar sound profile, the differing top housing materials in the Daybreak's polycarbonate and the Lotus's nylon provide distinct sound qualities. The Daybreak offers a sharper and crisper sound profile ideal for RGB lighting, while the Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound for a classic typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, we can see significant differences in their weight. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Lotus is lighter with a bottom out force of only 50 grams. The actuation force of the Daybreak is not specified, but the Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Daybreak provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is preferred.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, we can see that the Daybreak has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Lotus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying keystroke for some users who prefer a bit more depth in their switches. On the other hand, the Lotus offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more common in the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a more responsive feel or a more substantial keystroke experience.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 switches are known for their muted and low-pitched profile, offering a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switches provide a bright and resonant sound, adding a lively element to each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, the Daybreak switches may be more suitable for quiet work environments, while the Lotus switches could be favored by those who enjoy a more vibrant typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Daybreak linear switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel can enhance the overall typing comfort and accuracy for users. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the HMX Lotus switches is unavailable at this time.
Overall, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quiet sound profile, the Durock Daybreak linear switches might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy feel and a bright, resonant sound while typing, the HMX Lotus linear switches could be the perfect fit. Remember, the ultimate typing experience is a combination of the switch, keyboard, and keycaps, so experimenting with different components can help you find the perfect setup for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Lotus linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak switches with their 67g bottom out force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch and a more bouncy feel with a bright sound, the Lotus switches with their 50g bottom out force might be more to your liking. Consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard and how much noise you're comfortable with, as well as the tactile feedback you prefer. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that best aligns with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
