Durock Daybreak vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and Durock Lupine both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g weight, providing a hefty typing experience ideal for those who prefer a more substantial touch. In contrast, the Lupine boasts two-stage long springs that offer a consistent weight distribution while typing, along with a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Daybreak is characterized as polished, muted, and low-pitched, making it a great choice for quiet workspaces. On the other hand, the Lupine is described as neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished, delivering a clacky sound profile that some may find more satisfying. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Lupine feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. This material is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, despite this similarity, the Daybreak has a nylon bottom housing, while the Lupine also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile because it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that while both switches will have similar top housing qualities, the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel differently.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Daybreak and the Lupine utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, providing a clear and transparent look. This material is popular for clear housings due to its ability to showcase RGB lighting effectively. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches opt for nylon, which offers a different sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is known for its softer composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This contrast between the top and bottom housing materials gives each switch a unique sound experience that can be appreciated by keyboard enthusiasts.
While the top housing material of both the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Lupine is polycarbonate, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with nylon being used for both switches. The use of nylon for the bottom housing creates a distinct sound profile that is deeper and fuller compared to the crisp sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This combination of materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a balance of different housing materials to cater to the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that the Lupine is the lighter option with a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Daybreak is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, so it is safe to assume that they will provide similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. The difference in bottom out force means that the Lupine may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Daybreak's slightly heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will 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 Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Daybreak offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth when typing. On the other hand, the Lupine's slightly shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel and response time.
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 Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, offering users a softer and quieter typing experience with a more bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a neutral sound with a high-pitched characteristic, resulting in a moderate yet sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can choose between a quieter, bass-heavy sound or a sharper, crisper sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Lupine linear switch, on the other hand, offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. Both switches are polished, ensuring a sleek typing experience with minimal friction and enhanced key travel.
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak and Lupine linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Daybreak provides a heavier touch with muted and low-pitched sound, along with a polished feel for refined typing, the Lupine offers a two-stage long spring mechanism for consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, along with a neutral sound profile with a high-pitched tone and a mild, polished feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and sound profile, but users can expect a high-quality and satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier touch and quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force would be a great choice, especially for work settings where noise is a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful rebound, the Lupine with its 62g bottom out force and clacky sound profile may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, the Daybreak offers a more muted and low-pitched sound, while the Lupine provides a neutral and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Daybreak is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience, while the Lupine is mild and polished, providing a gentle and approachable feel. Consider these factors when selecting the switch that best suits your typing preferences.
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