Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Mars offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and environments. The Durock Daybreak switches are known for their substantial 67g actuation force, providing a heftier typing experience that many users appreciate, especially in quieter settings due to their low-pitched and polished nature. This makes them an excellent option for workspaces where minimal noise is crucial. On the other hand, Gateron Mars switches stand out with their unique POK stem design and a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, which contributes to a smooth typing experience and durability. While both switches are categorized as linear and provide a seamless keystroke without tactile bumps, they each have their unique benefits that make them appealing to different types of users. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Mars, a notable distinction arises between the top housings of each switch. The Daybreak utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to the material's stiffness and translucency. This feature not only enhances the auditory experience but also makes it a preferred choice for RGB lighting setups since the clear nature of polycarbonate allows light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the Mars employs a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This fundamental difference in sound signature results in distinct auditory experiences when typing, with the Daybreak demonstrating a brighter and more resonant quality versus the Mars's mellower tones.
The bottom housings of the two switches introduce yet another layer of contrast, with the Durock Daybreak once again opting for nylon, while the Gateron Mars features POM. The nylon bottom housing in the Daybreak is consistent with a sound profile that is similar to its top housing, delivering a dampened, rounder auditory experience due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. Meanwhile, the POM bottom housing in the Mars contributes to a unique yet muted sound, which leans towards a deeper and softer auditory profile. Both switches, therefore, employ materials that differ in their acoustic characteristics, impacting not only the sound produced but also the tactile feedback associated with each keypress.
Despite these distinctions, the overall sound and feel of both switches can exhibit similarities, as each switch balances the properties of its top and bottom housings. The nylon materials in the Daybreak's housing complement its polycarbonate top, fostering a relatively consistent auditory experience with a blend of crisp and rounded tones. Conversely, with the Mars, the nylon top and POM bottom allow for a unique interplay between softness and depth in sound. Thus, while the housing materials differ, the interdependent relationship between the top and bottom housings ensures both switches provide satisfying feedback and auditory experiences, making it possible to achieve similar end results in terms of user perception while still enjoying the nuanced differences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Mars is unknown. The Daybreak switch features a bottom out force of 67 grams, which classifies it as medium-heavy, emphasizing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mars has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that it may be more suitable for users who prioritize a light touch that allows for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Since we do not have the actuation force for the Daybreak and the bottom out force for the Mars, we cannot make direct comparisons in those aspects. However, based on known metrics, the Daybreak is the heavier switch due to its bottom out force, while the Mars is the lighter option based on its actuation force. Users seeking a more tactile and forceful typing experience may prefer the Daybreak, while those looking for a less physically taxing option may gravitate toward the Mars.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the Daybreak holds a slight advantage with a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Mars measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Daybreak provides a deeper keypress, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Mars can offer quicker actuation, making it a potentially better choice for gamers looking for rapid response times. The distinction between the two can significantly influence user preference: those who favor a responsive feel might lean towards the Mars, whereas individuals seeking a more substantial depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Durock Daybreak. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value speed or the depth of the keystroke.
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 Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 sound produced by the Durock Daybreak linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone, lending itself to a more bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. This makes it an ideal choice for environments where minimizing noise is crucial, such as offices or shared spaces. The Gateron Mars switch, however, offers an undisclosed sound profile, making it challenging to directly compare its acoustic qualities to those of the Daybreak. Importantly, the sound of switches can vary greatly based on additional factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so those using either switch should keep this in mind when assessing noise levels.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Durock Daybreak excels with a polished finish that provides a smooth and refined typing experience. This polishing process, which can be attributed to the materials used and possibly factory lubing, promotes reduced friction and satisfying key travel. In contrast, the feel of the Gateron Mars switch is not specified, leaving it unclear how it might compare in terms of smoothness or overall tactile experience. Users looking for a specific feel would benefit from testing the Mars switch to determine if it meets their personal preferences.
In summary, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch is well-regarded for its low-pitched sound and polished feel, the Gateron Mars switch remains somewhat unknown in terms of its acoustic and tactile qualities. For those who prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Daybreak is a strong contender, while the Mars switch may require further exploration to appreciate its unique design and functionality. Ultimately, if you seek a cohesive typing experience with it being less noisy, the Daybreak is the go-to choice, while the Mars might offer surprises that contribute to its own unique typing character.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Daybreak's 67-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying heft that many users enjoy, especially in a workspace where quieter operation is valued. Its low-pitched sound and polished feel ensure a smooth and pleasant typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you're drawn to innovative designs and possibly looking for a unique switch experience, the Gateron Mars may pique your interest. Although its bottom-out force is unspecified, this switch boasts a novel POK stem and housing made from a nylon-POM blend, which may offer a different tactile sensation and sound profile that suits your typing style, especially if you enjoy experimenting with new technology. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs—whether you value the dependable heft and smoothness of the Daybreak or the innovative design of the Mars.
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