Durock Daybreak vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) stand out as two appealing linear options, each catering to different preferences. The Daybreak is designed with a solid 67g actuation force, offering a weighty and tactile experience that’s perfect for those who appreciate a more substantial touch. This switch is also remarkably quiet, allowing for a distraction-free work environment or study space. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g and delivers a bright, resonant sound with a bouncy feel that adds an element of joy to every keystroke. While the Daybreak excels in muted operations that cater to quieter settings, the Lotus offers an engaging auditory experience that can enhance your typing satisfaction. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), distinct differences arise particularly in the top housings. The Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucency, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is particularly advantageous for setups involving RGB lighting, as its clear construction enhances the light diffusion, giving a vibrant aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing that is characterized by its softer and more absorbent nature. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, offering a rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, the Daybreak is likely to be brighter and more resonant due to its polycarbonate top, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) will offer a warmer and softer sound due to its nylon construction.
On the contrary, both the Durock Daybreak and HMX Lotus (Heavy) share copious similarities in their bottom housing materials, which are made of nylon. This uniformity implies that both switches will produce a deeper, fuller sound when bottoming out, benefiting from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon. The fact that both switches employ this classic material in their bottom housings suggests that users can expect a consistent tactile experience and an overall similar auditory response when they press down the keys. The effect of the nylon construction will dominate the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches, thus rendering this component a critical aspect of their common acoustic signature.
Taken together, the contrasting top materials of polycarbonate and nylon in the Durock Daybreak and HMX Lotus (Heavy) influence their sound characteristics, producing a nuanced range of auditory experiences. The Daybreak leans toward a sharper and more distinct profile, ideal for those who prefer clarity and light effects, while the Lotus (Heavy) offers a more muted and comfortable typing experience. However, the convergence of both switches in their bottom housing material unifies their sound when pressed, ensuring that users can enjoy a rich and satisfying keystroke regardless of the switch's top housing design. This cohesive yet diverse approach in housing materials allows users to choose based on personal sound preferences while still enjoying similar performance qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak has an unknown actuation force, which limits our ability to directly compare this aspect with the Lotus, whose actuation force is rated at 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Daybreak is 67 grams, making it the heavier option compared to the Lotus, which has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This suggests that while the Lotus requires a moderate force to perform a keystroke, the Daybreak offers a more substantial push feel, as evidenced by its higher bottom out force. Consequently, typists who favor a heavier switch for a more tactile experience might lean towards the Daybreak, while those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the HMX Lotus to be a more suitable choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Daybreak has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the Lotus (Heavy) the shorter option, offering a slightly faster response time that may appeal to gamers or those who favor rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Daybreak's longer 3.8 mm travel distance may be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel, providing a sense of depth that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preference for either responsiveness or a robust keypress 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 (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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
The Durock Daybreak switches are characterized by their muted, low-pitched sound profile, offering a smoother, bass-heavy tone that contributes to a quieter typing experience. This makes them particularly suitable for environments where noise reduction is a priority, as they minimize the typical clacks associated with mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches have a bright, resonant sound that can provide a more engaging auditory feedback during typing. The more pronounced sound of the Lotus can energize the typing experience, drawing attention to each keystroke and making it feel more dynamic. However, the overall acoustic experience with both switches can vary greatly depending on the specific keyboard and keycap combination used.
When it comes to feel, the Daybreak switches are noted for their polished finish, which results in a smooth and refined typing experience. This carefully crafted design minimizes friction and enhances key travel, making it a delight for those who appreciate a sleek and effortless typing performance. The HMX Lotus (Heavy), on the other hand, is known for its super bouncy feeling, which contributes to a more responsive tactile experience. While the Daybreak emphasizes smoothness, the Lotus offers a lively responsiveness that many typists find enjoyable. Both switches cater to different personal preferences in terms of how they feel under the fingers.
Combining all the available information, the Durock Daybreak and HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches present distinct characteristics that cater to varying typing preferences. The Daybreak excels in providing a muted, low-pitched sound and a polished feel, ideal for quiet office environments and those who prioritize a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus adds a bright auditory feedback and a bouncy response that can make typing feel more lively and engaging. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one prefers a subtle, refined touch or a more dynamic, responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding typing experience and sound. If you value a sturdy, more substantial key press and seek a quieter, low-pitched sound suitable for professional environments or shared workspaces, the Daybreak switches are your best bet with their 67g bottom out force and polished feel. These switches are ideal for those who may be heavier typists or those who require minimal noise while working without compromising on tactile feedback. Conversely, if you prefer a bouncy, lively typing experience with a slightly lighter actuation force of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches may be more appealing. These switches provide a delightful keystroke sensation, making them perfect for gaming or general typing where a bit of audio feedback can enhance your overall experience. In essence, your choice should reflect your specific needs for typing pressure, sound preference, and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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