Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Lunar Probe mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that both switches are linear switches, offering a smooth keystroke with no tactile bump or audible click. The Daybreak provides a heavier typing experience at 67g, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial touch, while also offering a quiet operation suitable for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe boasts Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, along with a pre-lubed linear sensation for a smooth typing experience. Both switches offer their unique advantages, with the Daybreak being categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched' and the Lunar Probe not having a specific categorization. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Lunar Probe share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances the resonance and clarity of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design of the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Daybreak features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics as the Daybreak. This shared feature between the two switches ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials in the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Lunar Probe are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the best qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon in each switch, offering users a versatile and customizable typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Daybreak switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Lunar Probe switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter overall feel. The Daybreak switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, while the Lunar Probe switch provides a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe may appeal to those looking for a more responsive keypress, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Daybreak may provide a bit more depth to the keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound, providing a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is not available, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of sound. When it comes to feel, the Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Lunar Probe switch are unknown at this time.
Overall, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter sound profile, the Durock Daybreak linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a novel dual rail mechanism for stable keypresses and an incredibly smooth linear sensation, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch could be a great option. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences when deciding between the two. Due to their differences in actuation force, sound, and feel, using the Daybreak or Lunar Probe switches will result in distinct typing experiences tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a quieter operation and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force along with the incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation provided by the Gateron Lunar Probe switch, then that would be your best choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, actuation force, sound profile, and overall feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider what matters most to you when making your selection.
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